Mirtha Jung stands as a powerful example of redemption and transformation in American history. Born in Cuba and thrust into the dangerous world of drug trafficking through her marriage to George Jung, she eventually turned her life around to become a poet, entrepreneur, and writer. This comprehensive guide explores every aspect of Mirtha Jung’s fascinating journey from the depths of addiction to a life of sobriety and purpose.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About Mirtha Jung
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mirtha Calderon Del Val |
| Date of Birth | December 3, 1952 |
| Age (2026) | 73 years old |
| Birthplace | Cuba |
| Nationality | Cuban-American |
| Profession | Poet, Entrepreneur, Writer |
| Famous For | Ex-wife of George Jung, portrayed in “Blow” |
| Net Worth (2026) | Estimated $1 million |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Children | Kristina Sunshine Jung |
| Years Active | 2001-Present |
| Sobriety | 45+ years clean |
Early Life and Background
Mirtha Jung was born Mirtha Calderon Del Val on December 3, 1952, in Cuba. Her childhood unfolded during one of the most turbulent periods in Cuban history.
Growing up in Cuba during the 1950s Revolution shaped her early worldview. The political upheaval and economic instability created a challenging environment for young Mirtha and her family.
Like many Cubans of her generation, Mirtha faced limited opportunities. She attended local schools in Cuba where she completed her high school education despite the difficulties surrounding her.
After finishing school, Mirtha worked as a waitress to support herself. This humble beginning would soon take a dramatic turn that would change her life forever.
The Cuban Revolution forced many families to flee. Mirtha eventually migrated to Colombia, joining thousands of others seeking better opportunities outside their homeland.
Meeting George Jung
Mirtha’s life changed completely when she met George Jung in Colombia during the 1970s. She was just 24 years old at the time.
George Jung, already deeply involved in cocaine smuggling, was introduced to Mirtha through mutual Colombian associates. He was ten years her senior, at 34 years old.
Their connection was immediate and intense. Both were drawn to the excitement and danger that came with the drug trade lifestyle.
Despite the age gap, Mirtha and George began dating in February 1975. Their whirlwind romance was fueled by passion, luxury, and the thrill of living on the edge.
Before meeting George, Mirtha was already familiar with the drug scene. She had her own connections to the growing cocaine market in Colombia.
Marriage to George Jung
Mirtha Jung and George Jung tied the knot in 1977. Their wedding marked the beginning of a tumultuous partnership that would last seven years.
The marriage combined two powerful forces in the drug trafficking world. Together, they became a formidable team in the Medellín Cartel’s operations.
On August 1, 1978, Mirtha gave birth to their daughter, Kristina Sunshine Jung. However, motherhood came during the height of their criminal activities.
Their marriage was characterized by extreme wealth and equally extreme danger. They lived lavishly, traveling to exotic locations and spending money without limits.
However, beneath the glamorous surface, serious problems were brewing. Both Mirtha and George struggled with severe cocaine addiction.
Role in Drug Trafficking
Mirtha Jung wasn’t just the wife of a drug smuggler—she was an active participant in the business. She played a significant role in George’s operations.
Working alongside George, Mirtha helped smuggle massive quantities of cocaine from Colombia to the United States. The Medellín Cartel relied on their expertise.
Her connections in Colombia proved invaluable to the operation. Mirtha’s Cuban background and Colombian contacts made her an essential asset.
She handled various aspects of the smuggling business. From coordinating shipments to managing relationships with cartel members, Mirtha was deeply involved.
The couple’s operation was highly successful during the late 1970s and early 1980s. They were moving millions of dollars’ worth of cocaine annually.
Addiction and Struggles
Mirtha Jung’s involvement in drug trafficking came with a devastating personal cost. She became severely addicted to the very substance she was smuggling.
Her cocaine addiction was so severe that she continued using throughout her pregnancy. Medical professionals warned her repeatedly about the dangers to her unborn child.
Even after Kristina’s birth, Mirtha couldn’t break free from addiction. The drugs had a powerful grip on her life and threatened her role as a mother.
The addiction affected every aspect of her existence. Her health deteriorated, her judgment became impaired, and her relationship with George suffered.
Mirtha’s addiction represented the dark side of the drug trade. While they profited from others’ suffering, she herself became a victim of the same destruction.
Arrest and Imprisonment
In the late 1970s, shortly after giving birth to Kristina, Mirtha Jung was arrested. Authorities caught her in possession of a dangerous amount of drugs.
The court sentenced her to three years in federal prison. This marked a crucial turning point in her life trajectory.
Prison separated Mirtha from her infant daughter during critical early years. The pain of this separation became a powerful motivator for change.
During her incarceration, Mirtha began the difficult journey toward sobriety. She participated in rehabilitation programs and counseling services.
Away from the drugs and the lifestyle, Mirtha had time to reflect. She realized that continuing on this path would destroy not only her life but also her daughter’s future.
Journey to Recovery
Mirtha Jung’s transformation began behind bars. The three years in prison became a period of intense personal growth and self-discovery.
She committed herself to getting clean and staying clean. The rehabilitation process was painful, involving both physical and psychological challenges.
By the time of her release in 1981, Mirtha had made significant progress. She emerged from prison determined to build a better life for herself and Kristina.
Mirtha’s recovery wasn’t easy or quick. She faced the ongoing challenge of staying sober while rebuilding her life from scratch.
She made a solemn promise to herself and her daughter: she would never return to drugs or criminal activities. This commitment has held strong for over four decades.
Divorce from George Jung
In 1984, Mirtha Jung officially divorced George Jung. The decision ended their seven-year marriage but opened the door to a new chapter.
The divorce was years in the making. Mirtha had actually decided to leave George while she was still in prison.
George’s refusal to quit the drug business was reportedly the final straw. While Mirtha was committed to change, George continued his criminal activities.
Their fundamentally different paths made reconciliation impossible. Mirtha chose sobriety and motherhood; George chose to continue smuggling.
The divorce was necessary for Mirtha’s recovery and growth. She needed to distance herself completely from the drug world to truly transform.
Life After Divorce
Following her divorce, Mirtha Jung focused entirely on rebuilding her life. She dedicated herself to maintaining sobriety and being a good mother to Kristina.
She began exploring creative pursuits that had been impossible during her years of addiction. Poetry became an outlet for expressing her experiences.
Mirtha also ventured into entrepreneurship. Though details of her business ventures remain private, she established herself as a legitimate businesswoman.
Writing became another important aspect of her new life. She documented her experiences and journey, though she kept most of her work private for years.
Most importantly, Mirtha concentrated on repairing her relationship with Kristina. She worked hard to provide stability and love after years of chaos.
The Movie “Blow” (2001)
In 2001, the biographical crime film “Blow” brought Mirtha Jung’s story to worldwide attention. The movie depicted George Jung’s life and their relationship.
Johnny Depp portrayed George Jung in the film. Spanish actress Penélope Cruz took on the challenging role of Mirtha Jung.
The movie introduced millions of viewers to Mirtha’s story. However, the Hollywood version took significant creative liberties with the truth.
One major difference: the film attributed Mirtha’s recovery arc to George instead. The real Mirtha was the one who got clean first and stayed sober.
Mirtha attended the film’s first screening and was involved with the production. Director Ted Demme reportedly became close friends with her during the process.
“Recovery from Blow” Memoir
Following the success of “Blow,” Mirtha felt compelled to tell her own story. This led to the 2018 memoir “Recovery from Blow.”
The book was written in partnership with her daughter, Kristina Sunshine Jung. It was published on November 16, 2018.
“Recovery from Blow” presented Mirtha’s perspective on the events depicted in the film. It filled in gaps and corrected Hollywood’s dramatizations.
The memoir has a unique structure, beginning with the death of director Ted Demme in 2002. Demme had become a close friend after the film’s completion.
Through the book, Mirtha shared her authentic lived experience. She detailed her struggles, recovery, and the reality behind the movie’s version of events.
Relationship with Daughter Kristina
Kristina Sunshine Jung was born on August 1, 1978, during the height of her parents’ criminal activities. Her early childhood was marked by instability.
After both parents’ arrests, Kristina was raised primarily by her maternal grandparents. This arrangement provided stability during chaotic years.
Mirtha worked tirelessly to rebuild trust with her daughter. The relationship had been damaged by years of addiction and absence.
Today, their relationship is strong and healthy. The collaboration on “Recovery from Blow” demonstrates the bond they’ve developed.
Kristina has pursued her own career as a businesswoman and actress. She has also been vocal about growing up with drug-addicted parents.
Current Life in 2026
As of 2026, Mirtha Jung is 73 years old and living a quiet, private life. She has successfully maintained her sobriety for more than 45 years.
Mirtha keeps an extremely low profile, rarely appearing in public or media. She has chosen privacy over the spotlight.
Her focus remains on family, particularly maintaining her relationship with Kristina. She’s also reportedly close with her grandchildren.
Whether Mirtha remarried after divorcing George remains unknown. She has kept her personal relationships completely private.
Mirtha continues her work as a poet and writer, though she doesn’t actively seek publication. Her creative pursuits remain mostly personal.
Professional Career
Mirtha Jung has established herself professionally in three main areas: poetry, entrepreneurship, and writing. Each represents a different aspect of her transformation.
As a poet, Mirtha uses verse to process her experiences and express emotions. Poetry has been therapeutic in her ongoing recovery.
Her entrepreneurial ventures have allowed her financial independence. Though specific business details aren’t public, she’s built sustainable income sources.
Writing, particularly the memoir with Kristina, has been important for telling her truth. She’s used the written word to reclaim her narrative.
All three career paths represent her commitment to living legitimately. They’re evidence of how completely she’s transformed from her criminal past.
Mirtha Jung Net Worth 2026
Mirtha Jung’s estimated net worth in 2026 is approximately $1 million. This is a significant achievement considering she lost almost everything after her divorce.
Her wealth comes from multiple sources. Book sales from “Recovery from Blow” contribute to her income.
Film royalties from “Blow” provide ongoing revenue. Though specific amounts aren’t public, these payments add to her financial stability.
Her entrepreneurial ventures and poetry work also contribute. Mirtha has built legitimate wealth through legal means.
Despite the modest amount compared to her drug-trafficking days, this million represents honest money. It’s wealth she can be proud of.
Public Perception and Legacy
Mirtha Jung is viewed by many as a symbol of redemption and second chances. Her transformation inspires others struggling with addiction.
Critics argue that she profited from criminal activities and shouldn’t be celebrated. The moral complexity of her story sparks ongoing debate.
Supporters point to her four-plus decades of sobriety as proof of genuine change. Her commitment to living differently speaks volumes.
Her legacy includes the memoir that helps families understand addiction. “Recovery from Blow” has educational value beyond entertainment.
Mirtha represents the possibility that people can change fundamentally. Her story challenges us to believe in rehabilitation over punishment.
Where is George Jung Now?
George Jung passed away on May 5, 2021, at his home in Weymouth, Massachusetts. He was 78 years old.
The cause of death was liver and kidney failure. He had been in home hospice care in his final days.
Unlike Mirtha, George struggled to maintain sobriety throughout his life. He was released from prison in 2014 after serving over 20 years.
After his release, George married Ronda Clay Spinelli. She was with him until his death.
There’s no evidence that Mirtha reconnected with George before his death. They had been divorced for 37 years and lived completely separate lives.
Kristina Sunshine Jung Today
Kristina Sunshine Jung has built a successful life as a businesswoman and actress. She was born in 1978, making her 48 years old in 2026.
She’s married to Romain Karan (some sources incorrectly identify her husband as Roman Reigns). The couple has children together.
Kristina has been open about her experiences growing up with parents involved in drug trafficking. She uses her story to help others.
Her collaboration with her mother on “Recovery from Blow” was a healing experience. It strengthened their bond significantly.
Kristina maintains relationships with both sides of her family. She’s created the stable family environment she lacked as a child.
Lessons from Mirtha Jung’s Story
Mirtha Jung’s life teaches that addiction doesn’t discriminate. Wealth and privilege don’t protect against substance abuse.
Her story shows that change is possible at any point. Even after years of addiction and crime, transformation is achievable.
The importance of accountability shines through Mirtha’s journey. She took responsibility for her choices and their consequences.
Family, particularly her daughter, provided motivation for change. Sometimes the desire to be better for others drives transformation.
Long-term recovery requires commitment and ongoing work. Mirtha’s 45+ years of sobriety didn’t happen by accident—it took daily effort.
Mirtha Jung vs. Movie Portrayal
The real Mirtha Jung differs significantly from Penélope Cruz’s portrayal in “Blow.” The film took considerable creative liberties.
In reality, Mirtha got clean first and stayed sober. The movie incorrectly attributed this recovery arc to George instead.
The film downplayed Mirtha’s active role in the drug business. She wasn’t just George’s wife—she was a significant participant.
The movie omitted her arrest and three-year prison sentence. This was a crucial turning point that the film ignored.
Cruz’s portrayal emphasized romance and glamour over the harsh realities. The real Mirtha’s story is grittier and more complex.
Media Appearances
Mirtha Jung has maintained an extremely low media profile throughout her life. Her last significant media appearance was around 2001.
She gave a few interviews to Texas newspapers when “Blow” was released. These were among her only public statements.
She attended the premiere screening of “Blow” in 2001. This was her most visible public appearance.
Since then, Mirtha has deliberately avoided media attention. She values privacy and has no interest in celebrity.
Her memoir “Recovery from Blow” is her primary way of communicating with the public. She lets her written words speak for her.
The Medellín Cartel Connection
Mirtha Jung had direct connections to the infamous Medellín Cartel. This organization was one of the most powerful drug operations in history.
The cartel, led by Pablo Escobar and the Ochoa brothers, controlled massive cocaine trafficking operations. George and Mirtha were key U.S. distributors.
Through George’s partnership with Carlos Lehder, they moved enormous quantities of cocaine. Mirtha’s role supported these operations.
The cartel’s violence and influence were widespread during the 1970s and 1980s. Being associated with them came with constant danger.
Mirtha’s ability to walk away from such powerful criminal connections is remarkable. Many who tried to leave the cartel didn’t survive.
Impact of Cuban Heritage
Mirtha Jung’s Cuban background significantly influenced her life path. The Cuban Revolution of the 1950s shaped her early years.
Growing up during political and economic turmoil normalized instability. This may have made the drug world seem less shocking.
Cuban migration patterns led her to Colombia, where drug trafficking flourished. Her heritage connected her to networks in the drug trade.
The cultural dislocation of leaving Cuba may have contributed to her vulnerability. Immigrants often face unique challenges that increase risk factors.
Today, Mirtha’s Cuban roots remain part of her identity. They’re woven into her poetry and writing.
Transformation and Redemption
Mirtha Jung’s transformation from drug dealer to sober poet represents genuine redemption. Her change has been sustained over 45+ years.
The key to her success was addressing the root cause: addiction. Without getting sober, no other changes would have been possible.
She completely separated from her former life. Mirtha cut ties with everyone and everything connected to the drug trade.
Building a new identity took time and effort. She couldn’t just stop being who she was—she had to become someone new.
Her redemption is ongoing, not a finished achievement. Every day of sobriety represents a continued choice to live differently.
Challenges Faced Post-Recovery
Even after getting clean, Mirtha Jung faced significant challenges. Sobriety was just the beginning of rebuilding her life.
She had limited legitimate work experience. Her years in the drug trade didn’t translate to marketable skills.
The stigma of her past made reintegration difficult. People were hesitant to trust someone with such a notorious background.
Financial instability was an ongoing concern. She lost most of her wealth in the divorce and had to start over.
Repairing damaged relationships, especially with Kristina, required years of consistent effort. Trust isn’t rebuilt overnight.
Role as a Mother
Motherhood has been central to Mirtha Jung’s recovery and transformation. Her daughter Kristina was her primary motivation for change.
Missing Kristina’s early years while in prison filled Mirtha with regret. This pain fueled her determination to be present going forward.
She worked to provide stability after years of chaos. Kristina needed consistency, and Mirtha committed to providing it.
Being a good mother while battling addiction recovery was incredibly challenging. Mirtha had to heal herself while caring for her child.
Today, her relationship with Kristina represents her greatest success. Their strong bond shows the power of commitment and love.
Privacy and Low Profile
Mirtha Jung has intentionally maintained extreme privacy since the early 2000s. She values a quiet life away from public scrutiny.
After “Blow” brought unwanted attention, she retreated further. The fame was uncomfortable and conflicted with her desire for normalcy.
She doesn’t maintain public social media accounts. Any accounts claiming to be her are likely unauthorized or fake.
Details about her current residence, daily activities, and personal relationships remain unknown. She’s successfully protected her privacy.
This privacy allows her to live without constant judgment. People recovering from past mistakes deserve the space to move forward.
Influence on Popular Culture
Mirtha Jung’s story, through “Blow,” has influenced popular culture’s portrayal of drug trafficking. The film brought attention to the human cost.
The movie sparked discussions about addiction, crime, and redemption. It humanized people often seen as simply criminals.
Penélope Cruz’s portrayal brought Mirtha’s story to millions who might never have heard it. The film raised awareness about drug trade realities.
“Recovery from Blow” added another layer to the cultural conversation. It provided the perspective often missing from male-centered narratives.
Mirtha’s life serves as a cautionary tale and inspiration simultaneously. Both aspects have cultural value.
Advocacy and Recovery Community
While not a public advocate, Mirtha Jung’s story supports the recovery community. Her transformation demonstrates that long-term sobriety is achievable.
“Recovery from Blow” serves an educational purpose for families dealing with addiction. It shows both the devastation and the possibility of change.
Her four-plus decades of sobriety inspire others struggling with addiction. If she could overcome such severe addiction, others can too.
Mirtha’s quiet example may be more powerful than loud advocacy. She simply lives the life she encourages others to pursue.
The recovery community points to her story as evidence that people can completely change. Past mistakes don’t have to define futures.
Financial Journey
Mirtha Jung’s financial journey mirrors her personal transformation. She went from immense illegal wealth to modest legitimate income.
During her drug-trafficking years, she and George had access to millions. They lived extravagantly without financial concerns.
The divorce cost her most of that wealth. She walked away with very little, prioritizing sobriety over money.
Rebuilding financial stability required starting from scratch. She had to develop legitimate income sources.
Her current estimated net worth of $1 million represents honest work. Though modest compared to her past, it’s money she earned legally.
The Cuba Connection
Cuba remains an important part of Mirtha Jung’s identity. Though she left decades ago, her Cuban heritage influences her worldview.
The political and economic situation in Cuba during her childhood created lasting impacts. These early experiences shaped her resilience.
Cuban culture, with its emphasis on family and community, influenced her values. These cultural roots helped guide her transformation.
Many Cubans of her generation faced similar displacement and challenges. Mirtha’s story reflects broader immigrant experiences.
Whether Mirtha has returned to Cuba or maintains connections there remains unknown. She keeps personal details about her heritage private.
Health and Wellness in 2026
At 73 years old in 2026, Mirtha Jung’s health appears stable. Her decades of sobriety have likely contributed to her wellbeing.
Recovering from severe cocaine addiction took a toll on her body. The drugs caused damage that required years to heal.
Maintaining sobriety for 45+ years has allowed her body to recover. Long-term abstinence provides healing opportunities.
Mental health has been equally important in her journey. Addressing trauma and addiction requires ongoing emotional work.
Mirtha’s commitment to wellness, both physical and mental, continues. At 73, she’s living proof that recovery supports longevity.
Future Outlook
As Mirtha Jung enters her mid-70s, her future likely focuses on family and quiet living. She’s built the stable life she sought.
Continued sobriety remains her top priority. Each day clean represents a victory and a commitment.
Spending time with grandchildren probably brings joy. Family has replaced the excitement she once sought in drugs and crime.
Whether she’ll write more or share additional stories remains to be seen. She may choose to keep future experiences private.
Her legacy is already established: she represents hope for anyone seeking to change. This will endure regardless of what comes next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mirtha Jung’s age in 2026?
Mirtha Jung is 73 years old in 2026, having been born on December 3, 1952, in Cuba. She has lived through remarkable transformations spanning over seven decades.
Is Mirtha Jung still alive in 2026?
Yes, Mirtha Jung is still alive and well in 2026. She maintains a private life focused on family, sobriety, and creative pursuits like poetry and writing.
What is Mirtha Jung’s net worth in 2026?
Mirtha Jung’s estimated net worth in 2026 is approximately $1 million. This comes from book royalties, film compensation, entrepreneurial ventures, and her writing and poetry work.
How long has Mirtha Jung been sober?
Mirtha Jung has been sober for over 45 years, maintaining complete abstinence since her release from prison in 1981. Her sobriety is her greatest achievement and foundation for transformation.
Did Mirtha Jung remarry after divorcing George Jung?
It’s unknown whether Mirtha Jung remarried after her 1984 divorce from George Jung. She has kept her personal relationships completely private and out of public view.
What does Kristina Sunshine Jung do now?
Kristina Sunshine Jung is a successful businesswoman and actress. She’s married to Romain Karan with children, and she co-authored “Recovery from Blow” with her mother.
How accurate was the movie “Blow” about Mirtha Jung?
The movie “Blow” took significant creative liberties with Mirtha’s story. It omitted her arrest and prison time, and incorrectly attributed her recovery arc to George instead.
What was Mirtha Jung’s role in drug trafficking?
Mirtha Jung was actively involved in smuggling cocaine from Colombia to the United States. She wasn’t just George’s wife but a significant participant in Medellín Cartel operations.
Where does Mirtha Jung live now?
Mirtha Jung’s current residence is unknown as she maintains extreme privacy. She’s believed to live somewhere in the United States, focused on family and sobriety.
How did Mirtha Jung meet George Jung?
Mirtha met George Jung in Colombia during the 1970s through mutual associates in the drug trade. She was 24 and he was 34 when they began dating in 1975.
Conclusion
Mirtha Jung’s life story represents one of the most compelling transformations in recent American history. From her birth in Cuba in 1952 to becoming deeply entangled in the Medellín Cartel’s operations, and finally emerging as a sober poet and entrepreneur, her journey spans extremes that few experience.
At 73 years old in 2026, she stands as living proof that redemption is possible regardless of how far someone has fallen.
Her 45+ years of continuous sobriety demonstrate extraordinary commitment and strength. The woman who once couldn’t stop using cocaine even during pregnancy has maintained complete abstinence for over four decades. This achievement alone makes her story worth telling and retelling.
Beyond personal sobriety, Mirtha rebuilt her relationship with her daughter Kristina, collaborated on a powerful memoir, and established legitimate sources of income. She transformed from being a cautionary tale into an inspiration.
What makes Mirtha Jung’s story particularly powerful is her choice of privacy over celebrity. Unlike many who profit endlessly from past notoriety, she stepped away from the spotlight after “Blow” brought unwanted attention.
She chose quiet dignity, family relationships, and genuine change over fame and continued profit. Her estimated net worth of $1 million in 2026 is modest, but it represents honest wealth earned through legitimate work—something far more valuable than the millions she once had through crime.