Article Summary: José María Yazpik talks The Gringo Hunters, Narcos: Mexico, acting, wardrobe, Zegna, family life and the projects shaping the next chapter of his career.
In this exclusive José María Yazpik interview, the acclaimed Mexican actor opens up about building complex characters, returning to work in Mexico and stepping into the world of Netflix’s The Gringo Hunters. Yazpik portrays businessman Meyer-Rodriguez in the crime series, adding another morally layered character to a career that has repeatedly explored ambition, power and the complicated people who live between hero and villain.
For audiences around the world, Yazpik is also closely associated with his portrayal of Amado Carrillo Fuentes in Narcos and Narcos: Mexico. Yet his career reaches well beyond the crime genre. His approach to acting starts with character, instinct and authenticity. Sometimes that process begins with a script. At other times, as he tells RUNWAY, something as fundamental as wardrobe can help him discover who a character really is.
The conversation also reveals a more personal side of the actor. Yazpik recalls how watching Peter Sellers in The Pink Panther first planted the idea of becoming an actor. He talks about returning home to his family after demanding roles, the importance of exercise, meals with friends, golf and his decidedly concise answer when asked about his favorite red-carpet designer: Zegna.
José María Yazpik in 2026
Yazpik’s career has continued moving forward since this conversation was originally conducted. He now stars in Netflix’s science-fiction series Futuro Desierto, playing psychologist Alex in a story centered on humanoid androids, grief and the meaning of family.
He also appears opposite Marisa Tomei in You’re Dating a Narcissist! and returns to the Apocalypse Z universe in Apocalypse Z: New World. The sequel is scheduled to arrive globally on Prime Video for Halloween 2026.
Those projects make this conversation particularly revealing. Yazpik discusses not only where his career had taken him, but also the acting philosophy, instincts and personal priorities that continue to shape the work audiences are seeing today.
Editor’s Note: This interview was conducted before the release of some projects referenced by José María Yazpik. The original interview is presented below without alteration.
José María Yazpik on The Gringo Hunters
We are excited about the debut of the “Gringo Hunters” on NeClix. Tell our readers what it was like portraying a character based on the real-life Gringo Hunters?
I play Meyer-Rodriguez, a businessman trying to change
the face of Tijuana by building “Las Vegas type” casinos.
My character is fictional, but it was a lot of fun portraying
him. I grew up in Tijuana, so I know a couple of people that
are just like the character.
What drew you to accept the role of Meyer Rodriguez? Was it something you knew right away or did you need to live in the character before acceptng?
It was something I knew right away what to do and how to
play him. Sometimes it happens like that. You just fall right
into the skin of the character. I love when that happens.
What was it like filing primarily in Mexico?
I have been lucky enough to film in many countries around
the world, and I’m very thankful for that. But every time I get
to work in Mexico, it feels like I’ve come back to my family.
The crews in Mexico are one of the best in the world. They
are warriors and they are warm and funny as well. It is truly
a delight to work in Mexico. Also, you can’t beat sleeping
in your own bed after a hard
day’s work!
Narcos, Narcos: Mexico and Playing Complex Characters
What were some of your favorite experiences on Narcos and Narcos: Mexico? What is the process you go through when preparing for a complex role such as these?
I love playing bad guys! It’s just a lot more fun than being the hero. But in the case of Narcos, it was a weird experience all together because of the theme. I enjoyed playing Amado
Carrillo, but at the same time, it was a bittersweet feeling
because of all the pain these people inflicted on Mexico.
The Inspiration Behind José María Yazpik’s Acting Career
Did you know that you wanted to be an actor growing up? What inspired you to pursue
acting as a career?
The first time I saw Peter Sellers in the Pink Panther, I
fell in love with the idea of having fun playing different
characters. I saw my whole family laugh while watching
The Pink Panther, and I thought, what a gift this actor is
giving us!! So after that experience, the seed was planted.
With such an incredible actng career under your belt, would you have any words of wisdom or advice for anyone staring out as an actor?
Be true to yourself, be patient, be empathetic, be disciplined
and do it for the pure love of it.
Life Away From the Camera
What do you do to relax and unwind after playing such complex characters on camera?
I love being home with my family. Exercise always gets me
in a good mood. Eating with friends and family, it can be
out at a restaurant or making an asado at home. Also golf.
José María Yazpik on Fashion and Zegna
Who is your favorite designer to wear for red carpet events?
Zegna.
Does the wardrobe help you get into character? How does it differ from how you dress
when you’re not on set?
Wardrobe is a very important part of getting into character.
Sometimes, when I can’t find my way to a character, I’ll start
trying different things on, and that usually helps me. When
I’m on set, I generally wear comfortable clothes.
What’s Next for José María Yazpik?
What’s next for you?
“You’re Dating a Narcissist” is a romantic comedy I did opposite Marissa Tomai, and it will premier soon. Just finished filming “Apocalipse Z 2” this summer in Barcelona for Amazon Prime, and I’m writing my second script to direct, possibly next year.
Where can our readers find you online?
@jmyazpik
Read next: Celebrity Style Hub: The Definitive Fashion Archive by Star
