Money Heist Alumni Álvaro Morte and Patrick Criado to Star in Netflix’s ‘Nine Queens’ Series Adaptation

Key Takeaways

• Netflix adapts Argentine heist film into Spanish series
• Álvaro Morte, Patrick Criado reunite as veteran and rookie scammers
• Set in 2012 Madrid, reflecting post‑crisis economic climate
• Production by LAZONA, filming in Madrid as of April 2026
• Release slated for late 2026 or 2027, expanding Netflix Europe

Pulse Analysis

The original *Nueve reinas* (1996) became a cult favorite for its clever twists and commentary on Argentine society. By reimagining the story in post‑crisis Madrid, Netflix not only taps into a proven narrative but also aligns it with a period of European financial turbulence that resonates with contemporary viewers. This geographic and temporal shift allows the series to explore themes of desperation and opportunism while offering fresh visual and cultural textures for an international audience.

Casting decisions amplify the project’s market appeal. Álvaro Morte, the iconic “Professor” from *Money Heist*, now portrays the seasoned scammer Marcos, while Patrick Criado, known for his role as Denver’s brother, plays the hungry newcomer Juan. Their reunion signals Netflix’s confidence in the franchise’s alumni to anchor new ventures, mirroring the platform’s broader practice of recycling high‑profile talent across its European catalog. This continuity builds brand loyalty and reduces casting risk, as audiences already associate these actors with high‑stakes drama.

From a business perspective, the series bolsters Netflix’s European production pipeline, a critical component of its non‑U.S. growth plan. LAZONA’s involvement brings local expertise and cost efficiencies, while the anticipated late‑2026 launch positions the show to fill a content gap before the 2027 slate of major releases. By delivering a culturally specific yet globally understandable heist narrative, Netflix aims to capture both Spanish‑speaking markets and the broader binge‑watch audience seeking sophisticated crime dramas, reinforcing its competitive edge in the crowded streaming landscape.