Who Killed Sara?’s Alejandro Nones

Alejandro Nones talks about the complexities of his character in the Netflix thriller Who Killed Sara? and what drew him to the role.

The Netflix thriller Who Killed Sara? follows the story of Álex Guzmán, who, after being wrongfully imprisoned for 18 years for the death of his sister, will once again be part of the powerful Lazcano family, looking to erase his past, take revenge and reveal the secrets of who killed Sara. The mystery drama series, which reached 55 million subscribers in its first season, returned to Netflix for a second installment in May. Alejandro Nones plays Rodolfo Lazcano, heir to the general management of the Lazcano casino and thought to be the person responsible for the death for which Guzmán was sentenced. Nones talks with TV Drama about the complexities of his character in the show and what drew him to the role. He also speaks to the professional challenges he faced during the last year amid Covid-19 and future projects.

TV DRAMA: What attracted you to the role of Rodolfo Lazcano, and what is the appeal of the story for global audiences?
NONES: I was drawn from the very beginning to Rodolfo Lazcano’s intensity and depth. He’s a complex character who presents an interesting evolution within the story, which also changes constantly. I appreciate that as an actor.

In regard to the appeal for global audiences, it’s a great story within the thriller and suspense genre. It surely manages to capture the public’s attention. The viewer is constantly trying to discover and understand who killed Sara. I think that’s universal.

TV DRAMA: You’ve worked in theater, film and television. Do you prefer one over the other?
NONES: I don’t have a preference. Theater, film and television all have their charm; each one is wonderful in a different way. I love and enjoy them all. Regarding which one offers more opportunity for developing creativity, I think creativity is within you. It has to do with a constant search that deals with the development of the character. The capacity for being creative depends more on you than from where you’re telling the story.

TV DRAMA: What have been the challenges you’ve faced as an actor in the new reality of Covid-19 protocols?
NONES: The protocols haven’t really affected me because my desire to work is stronger than anything else. I follow the protocols as responsibly as I can, and I’m always grateful for the opportunity to work.

I think the main challenge as an actor hasn’t changed. Currently, the script reading is a bit more complicated because [it’s] through video conferences or Zoom. It’s not the same as doing it in person. It has to do with being able to listen to the talent and looking them in the eye. This is part of the process and adapting is important, especially during times like these.

TV DRAMA: By having a global audience for the series on Netflix, has it opened up new job opportunities for you?
NONES: The global success of the series has opened new work opportunities. There are a few that are quite interesting. I’m very happy to find myself at this stage of my career, but I allow life to run its course and let everything fall into place. I’m very grateful for the worldwide success of the series, which in a short period of time has caused a considerable change in my professional life.

TV DRAMA: What new projects are you working on?
NONES: Currently, I’m working on a period piece called Malverde. It’s a story about an important figure in Mexican culture in 1910. [The production features] beautiful costumes from the period. I’ve never worked on a period piece before, so I’m really enjoying it. Riding a horse all day, with a revolver in my holster and dressing in these wonderful costumes, is very emotional and enjoyable.