Spain’s national television channel is updating its evening lineup. Replacing the documentary series “Secret Archives NO-DO” is an ambitious new drama project. On October 8, viewers of La 1 and subscribers to RTVE Play will see the premiere of the comedy-drama “Sin gluten.” Created in partnership with Onza and Prime Video, this series promises to be a highlight of the autumn season, offering a fresh perspective on social issues through humor, tenderness, and the art of cooking.
At the heart of the story is Ricardo, a brilliant chef whose career collapses overnight. The reason: a carelessly filmed video shows him, drunk, insulting customers in his restaurant. The clip instantly goes viral, and Ricardo loses everything—his job, reputation, and home. Forced to move back in with his mother, he clings to his only opportunity: a teaching position at the culinary school he once graduated from. Here, he must connect with unmotivated students, confront hostility from his colleagues, and battle his own demons. It is a story of hitting rock bottom and the difficult journey back, of reconciling with oneself and one’s profession.
The cast brings together acclaimed masters of the Spanish stage and rising stars. The leading role is played by Diego Martín, accompanied by Adam Jezierski, Alicia Rubio, Iñaki Ardanaz, Teresa Cuesta, and the legendary Antonio Resines. Special appearances by Fernando Tejero and Marta Fernández Muro, who add a unique charm to the story, are worth particular mention. The series features an influx of young talent including Paula Muriáñu, Najwa Hliwa, Lucas Miramón, Daniel Triana, and Tadeo Maso, who portray culinary school students.
The series draws its strength from its ensemble cast. Each character has a unique backstory. Adam Jezierski appears as Fred, a teacher-influencer obsessed with social media. Alicia Rubio plays Sonia, the class advisor torn between her job and the desire to become a mother. Antonio Resines brings to life Jacinto, an elderly caretaker who is hiding far more secrets than it seems at first glance. Fernando Tejero’s cameo in the opening episodes promises a real comedic highlight.
The idea for the series comes from Araceli Álvarez de Sotomayor, Javier Aguayo, and Germán Aparicio. Viewers can look forward to “four unique evenings”—the project will air in blocks of two episodes each. The kitchen here is more than just a setting; it’s a metaphor for life, where different cultures and generations blend together. The characters will be learning not only how to cook, but also how to face their fears, rebuild their identities, and allow themselves the right to make mistakes.
For TVE, this launch is more than just another premiere. It is an attempt to relaunch their line of fictional projects after a series of recent setbacks and to strengthen the strategy for creating content that not only entertains but also addresses relevant social issues. “Sin gluten” does this effortlessly and with a rebellious spirit, promising viewers a storm of emotions, genuine laughter, and a unique bittersweet aftertaste.
