Netflix’s glittering real estate soap “Selling Sunset” is back for its ninth season, and this time, the Oppenheim Group is getting a makeover of its own. After a dramatic fallout that saw longtime agent Nicole Young shown the door following her feud with Chrishell Stause and Emma Hernan, broker boss Jason Oppenheim is ready for a “fresh start.” His solution is a brand-new agent with Hollywood ties, Latin flair, and a fearless attitude: Sandra Vergara.
If the name sounds familiar, it should. Sandra is the biological first cousin and adoptive sister of “Modern Family” superstar Sofía Vergara. But Sandra isn’t stepping into the “Selling Sunset” world as “Sofía’s sister.” She’s coming in hot with her own résumé and a full-fledged career in entertainment.
“I don’t know what I’m getting into,” she laughs in one of her first confessional scenes. “Sink or swim, baby!” That sums up the season’s energy perfectly, featuring new beginnings, bold personalities, and, of course, high drama with a side of multimillion-dollar listings.
From Sofía’s Sidekick to Spotlight Stealer
Sandra’s connection to Sofía runs deep. When she was just a month old, Sofía’s parents adopted her due to her biological mother’s health struggles. Sandra grew up in the same household, surrounded by warmth and encouragement. “I never felt out of place,” she told HuffPost years ago. “My mom always made me feel like I was one of her daughters.”
© Getty Images for Elevate AgencySofía helped Sandra transition to Los Angeles and cheered her on in her pursuit of an entertainment career. Still, Sandra carved her own path, saying she believes “leveraging is a myth” in Hollywood. “As much as Sofía can say to someone, they have to be impressed by you,” she said.
From Red Carpets to Real Estate
Before trading in foundation palettes for floor plans, Sandra built an eclectic résumé in show business. Per Marie Claire, she once worked as a celebrity stylist and makeup artist, with clients like Rumer Willis, Jordana Brewster, Asia Argento, Bijou Phillips, and Sofía herself.
Her career on camera began early. At 16, she debuted in the 2004 Peruvian drama “Days of Santiago” and later shared the screen with Colin Farrell in Fright Night (2011). She’s also popped up on “CSI: Miami, Nip/Tuck,” and “The Bold and the Beautiful.”
© Getty ImagesOff-screen, she’s been a TV presenter and entertainment journalist, co-hosting E!’s “Good Work with RuPaul” and Dr. Terry Dubrow.
Why Real Estate?
So what brings an actress and TV host into the world of high-end property? Sandra told Netflix’s Tudum that her “love for people” and “eye for design” made real estate feel like a natural fit. “Combining [those qualities] in real estate just clicked,” she said. “I’d seen Selling Sunset and always thought the women were incredibly dynamic. But being on the inside now, it’s a whole different level of excitement.”
Her onscreen presence is bound to bring sparkle to the O Group’s already star-studded cast, and early teasers hint that her scenes with Chrishell Stause will deliver both mentorship moments and tension, because what’s “Selling Sunset” without a little shade mixed with champagne?
What to Expect from Season 9
Beyond the usual designer handbags and rooftop arguments, season 9 promises to focus on reinvention, for both the office and its agents. Jason Oppenheim’s decision to bring in Sandra feels strategic as she’s glamorous enough to blend in, ambitious enough to stand out, and seasoned enough to handle the reality-TV circus.
Fans can expect jaw-dropping homes, sharp one-liners, and a fascinating look at how a woman who’s thrived in Hollywood pivots to conquer Beverly Hills’ most competitive listings. And with Sandra’s charm and drive, it’s safe to say she’ll fit right in—or shake things up completely.
Read the full article here
