Carlos Sobera, who recently turned 65, has been one of the most recognizable and beloved figures on Spanish television for three decades. His face is familiar to anyone who turns on the TV, whether it’s to watch the dating show “First Dates” or the intense gala broadcasts of “Supervivientes.” Yet behind his on-screen charisma lies not only a successful career, but also a vibrant personal life and impressive business acumen, which he has skillfully balanced with his work in television, all while remaining a devoted husband and father to his wife and two daughters.
Sobera’s path to fame was far from straightforward. Before he became a nationally known personality, the Barakaldo native earned a law degree and even spent time teaching. For ten years, he gave lectures on advertising law at the University of the Basque Country. He has fondly recalled that period, noting that he was one of the few professors present in every graduation photo with his students. He admitted to being a demanding mentor, always insisting that his students take their studies seriously and leave university well-prepared as professionals. His television career began with a modest role as a scriptwriter, but his big breakthrough came in 1999, when he was chosen to host the quiz show “¿Quién quiere ser millonario?”. This program brought him several prestigious awards and made his signature gesture— the raised eyebrow—famous across the country.
The TV host’s personal life has been as colorful as his career. He has been married twice. His first marriage, to pharmacist Elena Casado, ended in 2002. Two years later, he found happiness right on a film set, where he met producer Patricia Santamarina. In one interview, he shared a funny story about their first morning together, when he asked her whether she preferred the Incas, Maya, or Aztecs. The unusual question intrigued Patricia so much that the next day she bought a book about the Maya civilization. It’s no surprise their wedding was held in Tulum, Mexico, following the ancient traditions of that culture, with a real shaman officiating the ceremony. The couple has a daughter, Natalia, but Sobera is just as affectionate toward Arianna Aragon, Patricia’s daughter from a previous relationship.
Together with the woman he loves, Carlos has shared not only happy moments but also faced serious trials. In 2019, Patricia suffered a brain hemorrhage, and her husband never left her side. He himself has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which led to severe consequences. He spoke candidly about developing tissue necrosis and coming close to death, describing the experience as a terrifying ordeal.
In addition to his television career, Sobera has proven himself a shrewd investor. He has made smart investments in real estate, notably acquiring a large plot of land on the prestigious Paseo de la Castellana in Madrid, where he established several profitable businesses. His assets also include two apartments near the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium and a family home in an upscale area of Madrid. Together with his wife, he founded several companies in various sectors—ranging from corporate video production to artist representation. His most high-profile investment was the purchase of the ‘Reina Victoria’ theatre in the heart of the capital in 2016 for seven million euros. Although he was forced to sell the theatre a few years later due to losses, Sobera and his team remained as tenants, continuing to pursue their passion. He remains optimistic and believes that setbacks are necessary to truly understand success, which is measured not by ratings or money, but by the opportunity to keep doing what you love.
