Boris Izaguirre, 60, reveals the impact of childhood violence, dyslexia and a traumatic assault. His mother’s unwavering support shaped his resilience. The Venezuelan’s career in Spanish media and literature remains influential.
Boris Izaguirre, a prominent figure in Spanish television and literature, has brought renewed attention to the challenges faced by many in their formative years. At 60, the Venezuelan-born writer and presenter has spoken publicly about the violence and discrimination he endured as a child in Caracas, including bullying at school and the lasting effects of dyslexia. His openness has sparked conversations about the realities of growing up different in a society slow to accept diversity.
Izaguirre’s experiences with bullying began early. He recalls that his mannerisms made him a target for classmates and even strangers on the street, who subjected him to insults and physical aggression. The impact of these episodes was compounded by his struggle with dyslexia, which delayed his ability to read and perform basic tasks. Despite these obstacles, his mother, Belén Lobo, played a decisive role in helping him navigate these difficulties. She worked with him daily, refusing to let societal prejudice dictate his self-worth or future.
The most harrowing episode of Izaguirre’s adolescence occurred at age 13, when he was the victim of a group assault. For decades, he kept this trauma private, but has since emphasized that his mother’s response was crucial in his recovery. Rather than allowing the event to define him, she encouraged him to move forward and not let the violence undermine his identity or aspirations. This approach, Izaguirre says, prevented the incident from affecting his sense of self or his relationships.
Family support remained a constant throughout his life. His mother, a professional dancer, always defended his right to express himself freely. She provided an environment where he could develop his personality without fear of correction or judgment. After her death in 2014, Izaguirre and his father, Rodolfo Izaguirre—a respected writer and film critic—grew even closer. Rodolfo’s acceptance and pride in his son’s achievements have been a source of strength for Boris, who is the middle of three siblings. His brother Rhazil works in the arts, while his sister Valentina is a designer and art director.
Izaguirre’s professional journey began at just 16, writing a column for the Venezuelan press. He soon became a successful telenovela scriptwriter, contributing to productions like 'Rubí' and 'La dama de rosa.' The popularity of these shows in Spain led him to relocate in the late 1980s, where he expanded his career as a journalist, screenwriter, and television collaborator. His breakthrough came with 'Crónicas marcianas' on Telecinco, which established him as a household name. Alongside his television work, Izaguirre has published several novels, including 'El vuelo de los avestruces,' 'Villa Diamante'—a finalist for the Premio Planeta—and the autobiographical 'Tiempo de Tormentas.'
His story resonates in a country where conversations about diversity, trauma, and resilience are increasingly relevant. The Spanish media landscape has seen a growing openness to personal narratives, as seen in recent coverage of public events and festivals. For example, the San Fermín festival in Pamplona recently highlighted both the risks and the enduring traditions that shape Spanish society. Izaguirre’s willingness to address painful subjects publicly reflects a broader shift toward confronting difficult issues rather than hiding them.
Spain’s evolving attitudes toward inclusion and mental health have made stories like Izaguirre’s particularly significant. His experiences underscore the importance of family support and societal acceptance in overcoming adversity. As public figures continue to share their personal histories, the conversation around trauma, resilience, and diversity is likely to remain central in Spanish cultural discourse.
