Antena 3, known for leading Spanish television ratings, continues its commitment to original content with the upcoming series, ‘Las hijas de la criada’. The drama, set in the early 20th century, is based on the award-winning novel by Sonsoles Ónega that won the prestigious Premio Planeta in 2023. Currently in production across various locations in Galicia, Madrid, and the Canary Islands, the series is expected to consist of eight episodes, each lasting approximately 50 minutes.
Recent announcements have confirmed that renowned actor Alain Hernández has joined the cast as Gustavo Valdés, the patriarch of the Valdés family. This addition comes at an intriguing time, as Hernández’s character will be seen exiting the current series 'Sueños de libertad', where he faced a dramatic demise due to a shooting incident that unfolded in a recent episode aired on March 19, 2025. The transition from 'Sueños de libertad' to 'Las hijas de la criada' marks a pivotal career shift for Hernández, illustrating the fluid movement of talent within Spanish television.
The series ‘Las hijas de la criada’ aspires to present a detailed portrayal of life through the lens of a family saga. It centers on two young girls, Clara and Catalina, who, born on the cusp of the new century, navigate a turbulent world of social change marked by class struggles, forbidden loves, and deep-rooted family secrets. With Verónica Sánchez portraying Inés and Carlota Baró in the role of Renata, the series shines a light on the complexities faced by women in a patriarchal society where their destinies were often dictated by societal norms.
According to Atresmedia's announcements, the story will unfold in a Galician manor and a colonial Cuban setting, renowned for their rich histories and cultures. Themes of betrayal, ambition, and personal empowerment will be examined as viewers follow the Valdés family's journey through trials and tribulations. The show promises a blend of drama and realism that resonates with contemporary audiences while remaining rooted in historical truths.
‘Las hijas de la criada’ is produced by Buendía Estudios Canarias with Atresmedia, evidencing a strong partnership in bringing high-quality Spanish narratives to life. As the series unfolds, a talented team including directors Menna Fité and Alejo Flah, along with producers such as Sonia Martínez, will ensure the series remains true to Ónega’s compelling storytelling. With a script penned by Irene Rodríguez, Alba Lucío, and Tatiana Rodríguez, the creative team has assembled to guarantee depth and integrity in the adaptation.
The novel itself has achieved significant acclaim, becoming the best-selling title of 2023 with sales surpassing half a million copies. The successful novel's compelling narrative arc and rich characters provide a strong foundation for the television adaptation, ensuring that the viewers will be drawn into the world of the Valdés family.
Plans for the series signal a thoughtful rollout. After airing on the streaming platform, Atresplayer, it is anticipated to transition to prime-time slots on Antena 3, tapping into the network’s established viewership. Hernández’s inclusion in the leading cast of ‘Las hijas de la criada’ is a strategic move that showcases Atresmedia’s efforts to retain its grip on Spanish-speaking audiences both locally and internationally.
For viewers, the combination of Hernández’s prior role alongside strong female leads hints at a blend of familiar comfort and fresh narratives. As past series from Atresmedia, including 'La Casa de Papel' and 'Veneno', have traversed boundaries beyond the Spanish-speaking world, expectations are high for ‘Las hijas de la criada’ to uphold this legacy of quality storytelling.
As the production continues towards its anticipated launch, audiences will be watching closely to see how this dramatic retelling of Ónega’s literary triumph pans out on screen. Fans eagerly await how the tensions and historical relevances will translate into a captivating television experience. Furthermore, the exploration of themes related to women's rights and empowerment throughout the show underscores a vital shift in cultural narratives, appealing not just to traditional viewers but a new generation seeking representation and relevance in their viewing choices.
Overall, 'Las hijas de la criada' embodies Antena 3’s ongoing commitment to high-quality Spanish language programming, poised to entertain and engage viewers with its rich tapestry of characters and intricate storytelling. As production progresses, one can expect the network will continue to build momentum leading up to the premiere of what could be one of its hallmark series.
