In recent years, Mariano Peña’s openness has come as a surprise to fans. The actor, who remained out of the spotlight for many years offstage, is now unafraid to speak about the difficult moments in his life and career. His journey in the arts was far from easy: lack of support, doubts about his own abilities, and fear of controversial roles accompanied him from the very beginning. Yet it is precisely these challenges that have made him one of Spain’s most recognizable actors.
Peña credits his professional success to a sense of inner freedom and the ability to accept himself. After returning to the role of Mauricio Colmenero in Paco León’s film, the actor once again found himself at the center of attention. But behind the scenes of popularity is a man who was not always certain he could cope with the pressure and public expectations. According to Divinity, Mariano admits that his private life has always been well protected, and he has deliberately steered clear of discussing personal matters in public.
Difficult decisions
Peña’s road to success was rocky. Growing up in a small Andalusian town, he dreamed of the stage since childhood, even though his hometown Manzanilla didn’t even have a movie theater. His parents didn’t immediately accept his choice, and his first steps in the profession were marred by setbacks and disappointments. After finishing school, he headed to Seville to study fine arts, but soon realized that his true calling was acting. Choosing to forgo a stable career, he spent a long time getting by with odd jobs before finding his place in dubbing and voice-over work.
Working in the studios of Sevilla became his salvation: it was here that he landed his first significant roles, voicing popular animated characters. This experience helped him gain confidence and master voice work, which would later become his trademark. However, true fame only came with the role of Mauricio Colmenero—a character who caused the actor internal conflict due to his brashness and provocative nature.
Inner barriers
Peña does not hide that at first he felt great tension playing a hero whose views and actions were far from his own. He admits that many of Mauricio’s lines were difficult for him, and the fear of being misunderstood haunted him even off set. Nevertheless, over time the actor learned to separate himself from the role and view it as a professional challenge.
Interestingly, even after the series ended, people on the street still call him by his character’s name. For Peña, it serves as a reminder of how deeply his work has entered the public consciousness. Despite this, he tries not to dwell on the past and seeks new creative directions, including appearances on culinary shows and other television projects.
Connection with his homeland
Although his professional career often requires him to live in Madrid, Mariano Peña always returns to his native Huelva. He fondly recalls his childhood spent on the beaches of Punta Umbría and believes that the provincial simplicity and sense of humor shaped his character. According to the actor, it is in his hometown that he truly feels free and can allow himself to be who he really is.
Peña notes that Huelva remains little-known even among Spaniards, but it is this that helps preserve its unique atmosphere and untouched nature. He is convinced that if the region were more widely promoted, much of its charm would be lost. For the actor, it is important not only to remember his roots, but also to share this feeling with those around him.
Mariano Peña is a Spanish actor who gained widespread recognition thanks to his role as Mauricio Colmenero in the series “Aída.” His career began with voicing cartoons and TV series, and he later became one of the most recognizable faces on Spanish television. Despite his success, Peña has always emphasized the importance of his private life and tried to avoid publicity outside of work. His sincerity and self-irony have made him a favorite with the public, while his commitment to local traditions has set an example for many colleagues.
