I Am Not Mendoza (original title: Yo No Soy Mendoza) is a 2025 Mexican-Colombian comedy-drama series premiering on Netflix on April 16, 2025. Blending elements of romance, crime, and mistaken identity, the series delivers a telenovela-style plot packed with unexpected twists and heartfelt humor.
Created by Fernando Gaitán, the show follows Julián, a kind-hearted debt collector who is kidnapped and forced to impersonate a corrupt casino owner, Esteban Mendoza. To maintain the illusion, Julián must marry a woman he’s never met and survive underworld threats — all while juggling a secret identity and unexpected romantic complications.
With its blend of comedic confusion, criminal intrigue, and emotional warmth, I Am Not Mendoza is designed for a mature audience but may attract younger viewers interested in Latin American dramas.
I Am Not Mendoza Age Rating
I Am Not Mendoza is rated TV-MA for language, sexual content, and thematic elements. While the comedic tone softens the darker themes, the show includes content that may not be appropriate for younger viewers. Here’s a breakdown of what parents should know:
Violence
There are occasional scenes of peril, including kidnapping, threats, and criminal activity. While the violence is not graphic, it plays a central role in the story’s tension. Some moments involve implied danger or off-screen violence, including references to mafia operations and corrupt dealings.
Language
The series contains frequent strong language, including expletives in Spanish that are translated with adult terms in subtitles. While not constant, the use of profanity aligns with the show’s mature tone.
Sexual Content
Mild to moderate sexual content is present throughout the series. There are references to sexual relationships, romantic entanglements, and a forced marriage plotline. Some scenes may include kissing, suggestive dialogue, and implied intimacy, though explicit nudity or graphic sex scenes are not expected based on the genre.
Alcohol & Substance Use
Characters are occasionally shown drinking alcohol, particularly in social or casino settings. There are also scenes of smoking and depictions of wealthy lifestyles tied to vice, in line with the criminal underworld backdrop.
Mature Themes
The central themes of identity theft, deception, arranged marriage, and criminal manipulation may be too complex or intense for younger audiences. The series also explores emotional conflict, unplanned romance, and the tension of maintaining a double life.
Is I Am Not Mendoza Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10-12: Not suitable. The series includes mature themes such as kidnapping, deception, and adult relationships, making it inappropriate for younger viewers.
Ages 13-17: Caution advised. Older teens may enjoy the dramatic tension and romantic developments, but frequent profanity, mature humor, and themes of crime and manipulation make it better suited for more mature audiences. Teens aged 16-17 who are accustomed to telenovelas or similar shows may find it engaging, but parental discretion is strongly recommended.
Overall, I Am Not Mendoza is primarily recommended for adults (18+) due to its TV-MA rating and thematic complexity.
What Parents Can Do
Preview the First Episode: Watching the premiere can help parents assess whether the tone and content suit their teen’s maturity level.
Discuss Themes: Topics like identity, personal integrity, manipulation, and trust can open the door to meaningful family conversations.
Explain Cultural Contexts: The show draws heavily from Latin American telenovela tropes, which may be unfamiliar to some teens. Offering background can enhance understanding and appreciation.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for I Am Not Mendoza?
A: The series is rated TV-MA for language, sexual content, and mature themes.
Q: Is there violence in the show?
A: There are scenes of implied or off-screen violence, kidnapping, and criminal threats, though it’s not graphically depicted.
Q: Does the series contain sexual content?
A: Yes. It includes romantic situations, kissing, and suggestive dialogue, but avoids explicit nudity or graphic sex scenes.
Q: Can teens watch I Am Not Mendoza?
A: Teens 16 and up may find it engaging, but parental guidance is strongly advised due to mature themes and content.
Q: Where can I watch the show?
A: I Am Not Mendoza will be available for streaming on Netflix starting April 16, 2025.