Julieth Restrepo: Voice, Presence, and Performance
- Matheus Hooks/ Editor-In-Chief
- Apr 17
- 5 min read
STARS COVER EDITION - GLOBAL ISSUE
In an era where global audiences crave authenticity, powerful storytelling, and meaningful representation, Julieth Restrepo rises as one of the most compelling voices of her generation. A Colombian actress and producer with undeniable star quality, Julieth graces the cover of the STARS edition of Hooks Magazine — an issue dedicated to talent that not only performs but transforms the world around them.
Fresh off the release of Netflix’s “The Residence”, Julieth is captivating viewers worldwide with her portrayal of Elsyie Chayle, a White House housekeeper entangled in a gripping murder investigation. Produced by the acclaimed Shondaland, the limited series delivers high-stakes drama, sharp wit, and a standout performance from Julieth, who shares the screen with powerhouse names like Uzo Aduba, Barrett Foa, and Juliette Jeffers.
Her latest role cements her status as an international name, but fans may already recognize her from the hit Netflix series “Griselda”, where she starred alongside Sofía Vergara as Marta Ochoa. The show became a global phenomenon, topping streaming charts and amassing billions of minutes viewed. The widespread acclaim gave Julieth a major spotlight in the American market and opened new creative opportunities — ones she continues to seize with boldness and grace.
But her influence goes far beyond acting. As the founder of Blue Rabbit Films, Julieth is carving her own path as a producer. Her film “Unidentified Objects” — a festival darling that screened at 64 international festivals — showcases her ability to curate meaningful, thought-provoking stories. Currently streaming on Amazon Prime, the project is a testament to her dedication to creating space for underrepresented voices and narratives.
Before crossing over into Hollywood, Julieth had already become a household name in Colombia, celebrated for her roles across film, television, and theater. From winning the India Catalina Award for Best Actress to earning multiple accolades at the Macondo Awards (Colombia’s equivalent to the Oscars), her career is rooted in artistic excellence and unshakable resilience. Her Colombian roots not only shaped her as a performer but gifted her a unique creative lens that now enriches every role she takes on.
What makes Julieth’s presence so compelling is her multidimensional artistry. Whether she’s immersed in the complexities of a role or shaping stories behind the camera, she brings a rare combination of discipline, soul, and vision. Her performances are grounded in emotional truth, and her production work is driven by a desire to tell stories that reflect real people and spark honest conversations.
Check out the exclusive interview with JULIETH RESTREPO:
1. “The Residence” is set to be a thrilling and suspenseful series. What drew you to the role of Elsyie Chayle, and how did you prepare to portray a character caught in such a high-stakes investigation within the White House?
As soon as I read the pilot and the scenes they sent me for the audition I started dreaming about being part of The Residence. Elsyie brings so much humanity to the series and Paul William Davies wrote all the episodes in such a smart and funny way that you get engaged right away. I felt that the script gave me a lot of the information I needed, the conversations I had with Jaffar, one of our directors, and Paul (creator and showrunner) informed me a lot of what Elsyie had to portray to help build the tension in the story.
2. With “Griselda” becoming a global sensation and reaching the number one spot on Netflix, how did that experience impact your career and the way you approach new roles?
I was really excited to be part of Griselda. Witnessing first hand the impact that’s been having world wide has been incredible. It definitely put me on the spot and introduced me to the American market. I’m grateful for the opportunities that playing Marta has given me and the doors that are opening -still- because I was part of that show.
3. You’ve worked alongside incredible talents like Javier Bardem, Penélope Cruz, and Sofia Vergara. How have these collaborations influenced you as an actress and a producer?
It’s been very inspiring seeing how grateful they always are for having the chance to work and create. I’ve seen in all of them the need to collaborate and have great teams that support you. The reminder that we can’t do this alone and that all the recognition that comes with your job is always thanks to the people who surround you.
4. Blue Rabbit Films has achieved impressive recognition, especially with “Unidentified Objects” winning multiple awards. What inspired you to step into the world of production, and how does being a producer complement your work as an actress?
I wanted to create opportunities for me and the people I admire. I was craving to tell stories that made me feel represented. Since I started producing I am more in control of my career as an actress. Producing gives me freedom and the joy of creating everyday, to challenge myself while learning about something that still feels new to me. I really appreciate the perspective I have on the industry now and the community I found on this journey.
5. Having received numerous acting awards in Colombia, from the India Catalina Awards to the Premios Macondo, how do you feel your roots in Colombian cinema and television have shaped your artistic voice on the international stage?
All the projects I did in Colombia (on theater, film and TV) taught me about resilience and gave me the chance to play so many different roles so when I moved to LA I felt that I was coming with a big box of tools and high standards that prepared me for the challenges I knew I was going to face here. I have worked with incredible Colombian directors, actors, writers… that have become my biggest mentors and I know I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them.
6. With your upcoming role in “The Residence” and your continued work as a producer, what kind of stories are you most passionate about telling—whether in front of or behind the camera?
I’m excited for the stories that remind us how connected we are as humanity. Honest stories in different genres that celebrate women and how far we’ve come. I’m passionate about opening conversations and creating characters that make the audience feel seen and relatable. The projects that I'm working on now reflect that and I can't wait to share them with the world.
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