Colombians that venture abroad in search of fortune and fame are often viewed in a mixed light back in their home country – not for their ambition, but because they might sell short some of their identity in order to appease their potential audiences.
Not so with Barranquilla-born Sofia Vergara, who has not only achieved resounding success in the States playing Gloria in the hit sitcom Modern Family, but is also someone most Colombians feel they can get behind. Her portrayal of Gloria is the antithesis of what Hollywood and television producers usually opt for when casting Colombian characters. Gloria is a well-dressed, intelligent, funny and caring woman who is proud of her country and often stands up for it when her husband tries to poke fun.
But it’s not just this part that pleases us and others that hold Colombia dear to their hearts, it’s also the way she represents the country in interviews and wears her identity proudly on her sleeve. Take, for example, this recent interview with Letterman:
Why, gosh darn it, Sofia sounds like us ranting about the beauty of Colombia and rallying against those naysayers (like Letterman) who try and suggest you’re in imminent danger if you come here. She explains the beauty of Cartagena, Bogotá and more. Also, unlike many of the stereotypes I hear about Colombian girls from many people that haven’t even met any, Vergara shows what they’re really like: intelligent, independent and more often than not boasting a great sense of humour.
So here’s to Vergara, a Colombian we here at the Colombia Travel Blog are proud to call our own. Be sure to watch the new series of Modern Family to catch her in action.
