Juan Margallo, the eminent Spanish actor, director, and playwright, has passed away at the age of 84 at his home in Madrid, leaving behind a rich legacy and countless memories for those who loved him. The news was confirmed by AISGE, the entity for the management of actors and dancers, which expressed its deep sorrow over his passing, describing it as "a terrible loss".
Born in Cáceres in 1940, Margallo became one of the central figures of independent theater during Spain's late Franco period. He was not just known for his stage prowess but also for his significant contributions to film, appearing in notable works such as El espíritu de la colmena (1973), Al sur de Granada (2002), and the acclaimed Campeones (2018). His transformation from actor to director showcased his versatility and commitment to the arts.
Following the announcement of his death on March 2, social media tributes flooded in, especially from his beloved wife, the actress Petra Martínez, who described the immense joy and laughter they shared, especially recalling their time working together on stage. "Juan and I were performing together, and we enjoyed it immensely," she wrote on Instagram, sharing cherished moments from their life and career intertwined.
The couple's partnership, both personal and professional, began when they first met at the Teatro Estudio of Madrid, directed by William Layton. They married in 1968, embarking on a beautiful relationship infused with love for the theater. Their two children, Olga and Juan, also pursued artistic careers, with Olga as a director and Juan as a composer and lighting specialist.
Highlighting Margallo’s extensive contributions, the jury of the 2022 National Theater Award praised his and Martinez's unwavering dedication to the arts. They described their performances as characterized by professionalism intertwined with humor, underscoring their impact on the theatrical scene.
Margallo's cunning and boldness were apparent when he defied the censorship regulations of Spain’s repressive Franco regime with the production of Castañuela 70, which became one of the first independent theatrical pieces to reach mainstream audiences. Despite facing immediate censorship following its debut, the production toured Europe and Latin America, cementing Margallo's reputation as a pioneer for artistic freedom under oppression.
His legacy is filled with numerous accolades, including prestigious awards from the Spanish theater community. He and Martínez were both set to receive the Max Honorary Award 2025, celebrating their contributions to the cultural scene.
Petra Martínez, upon reflecting on the extraordinary bond they shared, mentioned, "The truth is, it has deeply moved us to receive recognition together for our entire career, for how we create and understand theater together." Their joint dedication culminated when they jointly accepted the 2022 National Theater Award, reflecting their love as both artists and life partners.
The news of Margallo's death saw immediate out-pouring of condolences and admiration. Friends, family members, and fans alike expressed their sorrow and shared memories, highlighting how Margallo's spirit touched many lives. Loles León, who appeared on the program 'Socialité,' echoed this sentiment, stating how nobody anticipated Margallo's sudden passing, leaving the family