Antonia San Juan, the beloved actress known for her role as Estela Reynolds in the iconic Spanish sitcom La que se avecina, has opened up about her departure from the series during a recent appearance on David Broncano's show La Revuelta. The show, which airs from Monday to Thursday at 21:40, has quickly become a significant player in Spanish television, competing directly with the long-standing favorite, El Hormiguero.
San Juan, who left the series in 2014 after six seasons, clarified that her exit was not due to financial disputes, as many had speculated. Instead, she explained that she left on her own initiative, stating, "It always sounds better to say I left for money, but I was paid very well. Today, you don’t get those kinds of salaries." Her candid remarks dispelled rumors surrounding her departure, emphasizing that her decision was based on her desire to pursue other opportunities.
In her conversation with Broncano, San Juan reflected on her time in La que se avecina, which has been airing since 2007 and will complete its 20-year run in 2027. The series, a spiritual successor to Aquí no hay quien viva, has become a staple of Spanish television, featuring a range of memorable characters and storylines that resonate with audiences.
San Juan's portrayal of Estela Reynolds made her a household name, but after twelve years away from the series, she felt it was time for a change. "I left because I had another place where I could work. There were things I never talked about, nor will I talk about them. I don’t want conflict; I want to live a healthy life," she stated, hinting at underlying issues without delving into specifics.
Despite the challenges she faced, San Juan maintains a positive outlook on her career. She expressed gratitude for the opportunities she has had, particularly her ongoing work in writing, directing, and acting. "I want to live like a rich heiress; I've worked my whole life, and I want to earn money now," she declared, showcasing her determination to succeed.
During the interview, the actress also shared her thoughts on her financial situation, revealing that she owns an apartment in the Canary Islands and a house in Madrid, both with mortgages. "I have about a million euros saved up, but I plan to enjoy it rather than save it," she said, demonstrating her desire to live life to the fullest.
San Juan's appearance on La Revuelta not only highlighted her professional journey but also provided insight into her personal life. The 63-year-old actress candidly discussed her past relationships, noting that she was in a committed partnership for 14 years, followed by a 16-year marriage. "I separated in 2015 at the age of 54, and I felt like I saw the light," she joked, adding a humorous touch to her reflections on love and relationships.
Her frankness extended to her current dating life, where she admitted to being single and not feeling the need to rush into a new relationship. "Men my age don’t excite me, and younger men are at different life stages. So right now, I’m not interested in dating," she concluded, emphasizing her focus on her career and personal happiness.
In the wake of her departure from La que se avecina, San Juan has continued to thrive in the entertainment industry, taking on new projects and exploring her creative passions. Her recent appearance was partly to promote her latest film, Lo carga el diablo, which showcases her versatility as an actress.
As La que se avecina approaches its milestone of 20 years on air, fans of the series can look forward to its final two seasons, which will be available on Prime Video. The show's legacy, bolstered by characters like Estela Reynolds, remains a significant part of Spanish television history.
San Juan's journey from La que se avecina to her current projects exemplifies her resilience and dedication to her craft. With her unique blend of humor and honesty, she continues to captivate audiences, proving that her departure from the series was merely the beginning of a new chapter in her illustrious career.
