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The Iconic Role in a Beloved Spanish Series
It has been 21 years since the debut of Aquí no hay quien viva, yet it feels like just yesterday when Laura and Alberto Caballero’s series premiered on Antena 3. Initially, few had high hopes for this Spanish comedy, but soon enough, the quirky residents of Desengaño 21 won over audiences with their engaging storylines. Regardless of your age, chances are you’ve witnessed some of its unforgettable moments or heard memorable lines like “¡qué mona va esta chica siempre!” or “¡váyase Señor Cuesta!”.
Unforgettable Characters in a Collective Memory
Many personalities from Aquí no hay quien viva have etched themselves into the cultural consciousness of Spain. One particularly memorable character is Roberto, a comic book artist with an architecture degree. He enters the community in the very first episode, leaving behind his family home to settle down with his girlfriend, Lucía, portrayed by María Adánez, at Desengaño 21. However, his reluctance to let go of his childhood leads to their breakup, forcing him to find refuge in the attic.
Why Did Daniel Guzmán Depart the Series?
Actor Daniel Guzmán brought this iconic figure to life on Aquí no hay quien viva. After four successful seasons and 74 episodes, Roberto made an unexpected exit in the fifth season of the popular show. This departure raised questions about Guzmán’s decision to leave the Antena 3 series. In an interview with the show Cinco tenedores on Movistar Plus+, he revealed that two main factors influenced his choice: his desire to direct his debut film and his growing fatigue with a storyline he felt he had mastered.
“You change the interpretation standards, and while everything is acceptable, not everything works. I seek a specific outcome, and when that is forgotten, I prefer to pursue new opportunities.”
A Shift to Filmmaking and Its Consequences
“I left to direct my film. I was made to choose between the series and the movie, and I chose the latter,” Guzmán shared. Nevertheless, this choice led to a 10-year hiatus from acting. This transition was essential for him, given his restless disposition. As he openly admitted, he could not see himself lasting more than three seasons on a series due to the complexities of television work.
In the same interview where he promoted his latest film, Canallas, Guzmán expressed a strong desire to step away from directing altogether. “I do not want to make movies again. This will be my final film. Over 17 years, I’ve completed two films, which I do not consider as my progeny, but in a way, they have taken away from my life. Now, I seek more conventional projects. The film industry has strained my personal relationships with friends and family. I feel as if I’ve stopped living. For me, film has given me life, yet if I continue on this path, it will take it away.”
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