In a thrilling conclusion to the fifth season of the popular Spanish reality competition show 'El Desafío,' Gotzon Mantuliz emerged victorious, capturing the title in a dramatic finale that captivated viewers across the nation. The show, hosted by Roberto Leal, has been a standout on Antena 3, consistently topping the ratings charts and achieving impressive viewer numbers throughout its run.
Gotzon Mantuliz, a 36-year-old influencer and adventurer from Getxo, Vizcaya, has built a diverse career since gaining fame in 2009 when he won the fifth edition of 'El Conquistador del Fin del Mundo' at just 19 years old. His latest triumph in 'El Desafío' adds to a growing list of achievements that include work as a model, presenter, and fitness instructor. Known for his competitive spirit, Mantuliz faced a series of extreme challenges that tested his limits and showcased his resilience.
'El Desafío' has proven to be a ratings juggernaut, with the final episode drawing more than 1.6 million viewers on average and achieving a remarkable 17.5% share, surpassing its competitors by a significant margin. Throughout its fifth season, the show maintained an average of 14.7% share and 1.4 million viewers, solidifying its status as the most-watched program on Friday nights.
The finale featured an exciting lineup of contestants including Victoria de Marichalar, Susi Caramelo, and Lola Lolita, who all faced off against Mantuliz in a series of high-stakes challenges. Each finalist was paired with a non-finalist contestant to complete their tasks, adding a layer of strategy and teamwork to the competition. Notably, Genoveva Casanova partnered with Mantuliz for the final challenge, which contributed to their combined score.
In the climactic final challenge, Mantuliz delivered an impressive performance in the acrobatic routine known as 'Cuarteto extremo,' which ultimately secured his victory with a total of 265 points. Victoria de Marichalar finished in second place with 227 points after completing the 'Columpio humano' challenge, while Susi Caramelo and Lola Lolita took third and fourth places, respectively.
Reflecting on his win, Mantuliz expressed gratitude and excitement, stating, "I was determined to give my best in every challenge, and I’m proud to have achieved this victory." His competitive nature was evident throughout the season, as he consistently ranked at the top, maintaining his lead from the very first gala to the last.
In addition to the title, Mantuliz was awarded a car and €30,000, which he generously decided to donate to the 'Uno entre cien mil' foundation, an organization dedicated to fighting childhood leukemia. This act of kindness moved host Roberto Leal, who remarked on the significance of such a gesture during the emotional moment.
As the show concluded, it was clear that the camaraderie among contestants had blossomed into strong friendships. Mantuliz shared, "The best part of this experience was the bond we formed. We supported each other through every challenge, and it was incredible to see how we all grew together." The contestants created a WhatsApp group to stay connected and discuss the episodes, highlighting the lasting impact of their shared experiences.
Throughout the season, Mantuliz faced a variety of daunting tasks, including the infamous 'Fuego en el cuerpo,' a challenge that required him to endure being set on fire while performing. He described the experience as both exhilarating and terrifying, stating, "It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I never thought I would try. I wanted to push my limits and create something spectacular."
His ability to tackle such extreme challenges has made him a favorite among viewers, and his journey on 'El Desafío' has solidified his reputation as a fearless competitor. Despite his confidence on screen, he admitted to feeling nervous before performing in front of a live audience, saying, "I may look calm, but inside, I’m like a flan!"
As the season wrapped up, 'El Desafío' not only celebrated its fifth edition but also reinforced its position as a leader in entertainment on Spanish television. The program has consistently attracted a young audience, with a 17.1% share among viewers aged 13 to 24 and a 19.7% share among children aged 4 to 12.
With its unique blend of adventure, competition, and emotional storytelling, 'El Desafío' has become a staple of Friday night viewing in Spain. As fans eagerly anticipate the next season, Mantuliz's victory serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination that define the spirit of the show.
In conclusion, Gotzon Mantuliz's win in 'El Desafío' exemplifies the thrill and unpredictability of reality television, as well as the power of camaraderie and community among contestants. His journey from a young reality star to a celebrated adventurer continues to inspire many, and his selfless act of charity further highlights the positive impact of reality television beyond mere entertainment.
