The Spanish film industry has suffered another loss. Renowned actor Antonio Banderas, reacting from London, responded to news of the death of his friend and colleague Eusebio Poncela. In recent days, Spain’s cultural sphere has faced a series of losses, including actress Verónica Echegui and singer Manuel de la Calva, sparking an outpouring of condolences in the artistic community. Banderas, widely regarded as an unofficial representative of national cinema, dedicated an especially touching message to Poncela.
Eusebio Poncela passed away after a courageous and peaceful battle with cancer, surrounded by loved ones. This was reported by the Academia de Cine. Poncela was a veteran of stage and screen, with a career spanning six decades. He excelled not only as an actor but also as a producer, artist, and screenwriter. In 2001, he was nominated for the Goya Award for Best Actor for his role in “Intacto.” Audiences also remember him for leading roles in television series such as “Los gozos y las sombras” and “Águila roja.”
The news of his friend’s death reached Antonio Banderas while he was filming in the British capital, where he is working on the dramedy ‘Rose’s Baby’ alongside Ursula Corberó. In his statement, the actor noted that this sad event once again reminded him of the fleeting nature of human existence. Banderas and Poncela starred together in two landmark films by director Pedro Almodóvar: ‘Matador’ (1986) and ‘La ley del deseo’ (1987).
The actor accompanied his words with shared photos and fond memories from the set of ‘La ley del deseo.’ He described that time as working in what is now a distant Madrid, filled with the spirit of change, with laughter and tears that colored life in unusual new shades. Banderas praised Poncela’s creative legacy, calling his works magnificent. He described his colleague as a ‘mysterious and dear friend,’ wishing him to rest in peace.
It is worth noting that Antonio Banderas’ public reflections often resonate widely. Whether speaking at award ceremonies, appearing on television shows, or sharing on social media, his words draw attention. Previously, he shared his thoughts on turning 65, encouraging people to look back on their journey with a smile and to embrace the present with gratitude. During a recent appearance on the popular show “El Hormiguero,” Banderas discussed the challenge of managing one’s ego, explaining that an actor’s self-esteem is closely tied to successes and failures, and that professional setbacks are often taken personally, leading to serious internal struggles.
