Leonor Watling, the talented actress and singer, is gearing up for a pivotal role as co-host of the Goya Awards 2025 alongside fellow actress Maribel Verdú. This momentous event, set to take place on February 8 at the Palacio de Congresos de Granada, marks the first time two women will lead the prestigious ceremony, making it not only significant for Watling's career but also for representation within the Spanish film industry.
At 49, Watling reflects on the duality of her professional triumphs and personal growth as she approaches her 50th birthday. Throughout her extensive career, she has been nominated for Goya Awards twice: first for her role in La hora de los valientes and later for A mi madre le gustan las mujeres. Though she has yet to take home the distinguished trophy, Watling expresses her gratitude for the recognition among her peers. "For an actor, it's wonderful just to make a living from your profession, but if the work you do is valued enough by your colleagues to be recognized, it becomes an incredible sensation," she shared with
Vanity Fair.
Born to a British mother and a father from Cádiz, Watling’s upbringing infused her with creativity, discipline, and humor. Starting her career at the young age of sixteen, she has appeared in numerous films and television shows, becoming one of Spain’s most recognized actresses.
Despite her successes, Watling admits to grappling with the emotional challenges of aging. "I haven't thought about what I'm going to do, whether I'll celebrate it or not. I'm still in denial about turning 50," she recently stated. This candid expression highlights the difficult transition many face as they age, particularly women within the entertainment industry, who often feel pressured to maintain youthful appearances.
Alongside her film career, Watling has firmly established herself as a musician with her band, Marlango, where the blend of jazz, blues, and pop resonates with her artistic identity. Having undergone a brief hiatus since 2023, she hints at exciting new projects on the horizon. Music, she reveals, provides her with something different from acting: "It's incredibly organic and physical, it's never intellectual. Being on stage is about being present and alive at the moment."
Watling’s personal life is equally noteworthy. She has been in a long-term partnership with Uruguayan musician Jorge Drexler since 2006, whom she met during the filming of Hable con ella. The couple shares two children, Luca and Leah, born in 2009 and 2011, respectively. Reflecting on parenting, Watling emphasizes the need for humor and respect, which she believes are top priorities. "It's healthy to laugh at yourself and understand the events of life with curiosity," she expressed.
Of late, the actress has opened up about the changes she faces as her children enter their teenage years. “The hardest part for me has been transitioning to realizing the absolute love of your children, particularly as they become more independent. Suddenly you find you’re not as needed,” she noted, reflecting on the bittersweetness of motherhood.
Watling is not just facing personal challenges; she approaches her role as co-host of the Goya Awards with awareness and enthusiasm. During the awards presentation, she and Verdú aim to bring joy and entertainment to the audience. "We want people to have fun and enjoy themselves, and our energy will guide them through the evening," she affirmed.
Her historical presence at the Goya Awards serves as both recognition of her contributions to Spanish cinema and as inspiration for future generations of actresses. Watling believes passionately about the opportunities for women over forty within the entertainment industry. "I now see many super interesting projects with actresses of my age and older," she commented, signaling the gradual shift away from the aging actress stereotype.
Leonor Watling’s career may be marked by achievements, but it is her authenticity and vulnerability—in discussing the realities of aging, motherhood, and artistry—that resonate deeply with her audience. Embracing her age and experience, she stands on the cusp of what promises to be another vibrant chapter of life filled with possibility and creativity.