The premiere of the second part of Bridgerton’s fourth season sparked a wave of interest not only among Netflix fans but also in Madrid’s cultural scene. For several days, the Spanish capital became a focal point for the show’s stars, who arrived to celebrate the release of new episodes and meet with fans. The actors’ visit was marked not only by photo shoots and interviews but also by unexpected stories that revealed new facets of their personalities.
Hannah Dodd, who played Francesca Bridgerton, attracted particular attention. Her story about meeting Antonio Banderas became a true sensation for the Spanish public. According to russpain, the actress recalled how in 2025, while working in London on the musical Cabaret, she met the famous Spanish actor. Banderas, known for his passion for theater, attended the performance and left behind an unusual souvenir—a Croc shoe he decorated himself, inspired by the character Shrek.
Spanish connection in London
The Croc story quickly spread across social media and became a hot topic among fans of both artists. Hannah didn’t hide her excitement as she shared how much Banderas’s attention meant to her. She captured that moment on Instagram, where she still keeps a photo in a section dedicated to Cabaret. For Spanish Bridgerton fans, these details were yet another reason to take pride in their compatriot, who not only succeeded in Hollywood but also supports young actors on stage.
During their visit to Madrid, Dodd and her colleagues took part in an unusual friendship test, where the actress had to recall details of her meeting with Banderas. Her co-star, Yerin Ha, easily guessed which actor it was when she heard hints about roles in “Shrek” and “Spy Kids.” This press interaction gave viewers a glimpse of the Bridgerton stars outside their usual roles and offered more personal insights about them.
Promo tour and the Spanish audience
The European promo tour was not only part of the cast’s professional duties, but also an opportunity to get to know different cultures. In Madrid, they received a particularly warm welcome: Spanish audiences are known for their passion and attention to detail. Meetings with fans were informal, letting the actors openly share their impressions and stories related to Spain.
For many Bridgerton fans, the cast’s arrival was a true event. The chance to interact with favorite characters, hear their personal stories, and learn about filming behind the scenes is a rare treat for Spanish viewers. This was especially evident when Hannah Dodd shared her excitement about meeting Banderas, noting that the day became one of the most memorable in her career.
Cultural exchange and new traditions
Such visits by world-class stars not only boost the popularity of the series, but also strengthen cultural ties between countries. Spanish fans of Bridgerton had a chance to feel part of a large international community, while the actors got closer to their Spanish audience. Unusual stories, like the gift from Banderas, become symbols of this exchange and stay memorable for a long time.
In recent years, Spain has increasingly become a venue for major promotional events of international projects. This not only highlights the country’s significance on Europe’s cultural map but also opens up new opportunities for cooperation between artists and audiences. The visit of the Bridgerton cast to Madrid is yet another confirmation that Spanish audiences know how to surprise and inspire even the most seasoned stars.
Antonio Banderas is one of the most renowned Spanish actors of our time, celebrated not only for his roles in Hollywood but also for his active involvement in Europe’s theater scene. His interest in musicals and support for young artists have made him a true symbol of cultural exchange between Spain and other countries. For many actors, meeting Banderas marks a significant milestone in their careers, and for fans, it is a reason to be proud of their compatriot.
