María Félix, one of Mexican cinema's most influential stars, will be honored in a new film about her life, with a cast that features newcomer Elsa Ortiz in the coveted role as Félix.

Félix, also known as "La Doña," appeared in over 45 films between 1942 and 1971. The film "Doña Bárbara" inspired her nickname, but she also starred in others like "Enamorada" and "Maclovia." The star's fame expanded beyond Mexico and her resume includes 14 films in Europe.

According to People en Español, the film is to be directed by Fausto Alatorre, who cast Ortiz, and is expected to begin filming at the end of the year.

Ortiz, a model and actress from Jalisco, Mexico, shared the news of her casting on Twitter and expressed her excitement over getting the role of a lifetime. She was excited to play the actress, who has inspired several Latinas, including Eva Longoria, who recently named Félix as one of her heroes.

"It is a great honor to be able to represent this woman...she is beauty, intelligence, personality. It's a great opportunity that I'm enjoying to its fullest" Ortiz said.

The actress also shared a few photos on Twitter of herself dressed as Félix as part of a promotional photoshoot for the film.

The iconic role could just be the one that puts Ortiz on the map. Here is what we know about the actress so far.

She's a Telenovela Actress


Ortiz has been building acting credits in supporting roles on telenovelas in Mexico. Since April 2015, she has been playing the role of Tamara on the Azteca-produced telenovela "Uepa! Un escenario para amor."

"Uepa!" is a remake of the 2001 telenovela "Como en el cine" and is known for its comical drama and romance.

She Models for Magazines and Fashion Shows

Ortiz has appeared in several fashion magazine spreads in Mexico, including Avenue and Reforma. She has also walked the runway during presentations of bridal collections by "Expo Tu Boda."

She's a Music Video Star


The actress has expressed her love for music on her social media accounts, but her interest doesn't end there.

In 2015, she made an appearance as the female lead in the music video for Paulino Monroy's song "Disparaste a Matar." The video follows a couple after a painful breakup.

Related