Jesús Ortiz, father of Queen Letizia—known for his consistent commitment to privacy and extremely rare public appearances—is preparing for a landmark event. On December 15, he will personally travel to Vigo to play a central role in the book presentation of his longtime close friend, Jorge K. Alonso. The event, marking the launch of the culinary collection “Las Comidas de Villasinda,” will take place in the book section of El Corte Inglés department store at 8:00 p.m.
This event has attracted special attention from the press and the public precisely because of Ortiz’s participation. For the past two decades, he has diligently avoided any kind of media spotlight. His decision to support his friend in such a public format highlights the depth of their relationship and shared interests that go far beyond their professional lives. For many, this will be a rare chance to see the father-in-law of King Felipe VI in an informal setting.
The choice of venue—a major shopping center in Vigo—is also no coincidence. This makes the event accessible to the general public, not just a limited group of invitees, adding a sense of openness and inclusivity rarely seen at gatherings involving those close to the royal family.
A friendship forged in the kitchen
At the heart of this public gesture is the strong friendship between Jesús Ortiz and Jorge C. Alonso, founder of the publishing house Agoeiro. Their bond is forged not only by years of working together in journalism, but also by a shared passion for gastronomy. In the book’s foreword, Alonso describes Ortiz as a man of remarkable honesty, kindness, and generosity—qualities he says form the foundation of their camaraderie.
The book itself, “Las Comidas de Villasinda,” is a collection of recipes born out of the author’s love for cooking. It is intended both for seasoned food enthusiasts and those taking their first steps in the kitchen. The recipes are selected to be both varied and accessible, making this publication truly universal.
Behind the scenes of the royal family
Jesús Ortiz, who wrote the prologue to the book, reveals his own approach to cooking. He describes it as intuitive, recalling how his grandmother measured ingredients “by eye,” relying on experience and instinct. This brief excerpt offers a rare glimpse into the inner world of a man who always remains in the background of his famous daughters, Letizia and Telma, serving as their steadfast support.
Despite stepping back from an active journalism career, Ortiz occasionally participates in various projects, but always with great selectiveness. Since his daughter became part of the Spanish monarchy, his life has become an example of restraint and modesty. Over the past twenty years, he has given only a few interviews, preferring a calm and measured life away from palace intrigues and the attention of the paparazzi.
Event in Vigo
The upcoming presentation in Vigo has become an event not just for the worlds of literature and gastronomy, but also for society pages. Jesús Ortiz’s low public profile makes every appearance noteworthy. For the public and journalists alike, this is a rare opportunity to see and hear from the Queen’s father, to learn more about his personal passions and professional perspective through the lens of a cookbook created by his friend.
Jorge C. Alonso, in turn, is a prominent figure in the cultural life of Galicia. He is not only a writer and publisher, but also the president of the Galician Institute for Communication Studies, and his publishing house, Ediciones Agoeiro, is actively working on several new projects. This presentation, therefore, brings together two professionals whose friendship is proven not by words but by real deeds and mutual support.
Incidentally, Jesús José Ortiz Álvarez is a renowned Spanish journalist whose career is closely linked to radio and television. He began at Antena 3 Radio and later became one of the founders of the Antena 3 television channel. His professional background also includes work as a communications consultant. From his first marriage to nurse Paloma Rocasolano, he has three daughters: Letizia (now the Queen of Spain), Telma, and Érika, who tragically passed away in 2007. After the divorce, Jesús Ortiz married journalist Ana Togores. Despite his eldest daughter’s high status, he has always strived to maintain his independence and live as an ordinary citizen.
