At 38 years old, Spanish actor Mario Casas is experiencing life from a new perspective. After years of skyrocketing to fame, Casas has decided to slow down and embrace personal well-being. Recently, appearing on the talk show El Hormiguero, he revealed the secret behind his revitalized self: "I haven't consumed alcohol for two years and nearly two months without smoking," he disclosed, noting the remarkable impact these changes have had on his physical and mental health. "Everything has changed. My outlook on life, the way I eat, how I think... absolutely everything has improved."
Once crowned the teen idol through his lead role in Los hombres de Paco, he now wears his transformation as a badge of honor. Mario emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, acknowledging how social drinking had previously framed his relationships: "Alcohol was very social for me, but once you take it away, you'll see how difficult it is to connect with others without beer present." He added, "It’s all about self-improvement. I've focused on sports for the past two years; it's as important to me as eating well. It's about cutting out bad habits, taking care of myself. I don't party anymore."
Currently, Casas is promoting his film El secreto del Orfebre, which premieres on February 28. The period romance infused with fantasy and time travel features him as Juan Pablo, who experiences a summer love affair, only to reunite two decades later: "It's like the movies of old," he enthuses. Interestingly, this movie reconnects him with Michelle Jenner, who starred opposite him years ago. Reflecting on those early days, he recalls how he faced overwhelming backlash from fans who disapproved of his on-screen character’s romantic involvements. "The entire country hated me; I had to endure being spat on just for portraying this character! It was heartbreaking, honestly," he recounted.
Boasting about his progress, Mario reflects on how far he's come since his acting debut, with 24 films under his belt now. Eyeing the future, he expressed his desire to return to directing. "Editing was tough, but I eventually found my groove. I'd love to direct my brother, Óscar, again. He's flourishing!" His pride for his family is evident, highlighting the support system behind his successful career.
Born June 12, 1986, to Heidi Sierra and Ramón Casas—who were quite young when they became parents at 19 and 17 respectively—Mario grew up surrounded by his four siblings. The family relocated from A Coruña to Catalonia when he was six, and, before his acting career, he worked various jobs like carpentry. Starting his career with commercials, he later debuted on television with SMS in 2006. From there, he skyrocketed to fame with key roles in beloved series such as Los hombres de Paco and El barco, and films like A tres metros sobre el cielo and No matarás, for which he won his first Goya for Best Actor.
Reflecting on his rise to fame, Mario has candidly shared moments of self-doubt, emphasizing how close he came to letting go of acting. He stated, "At 23 or 24, as my profile skyrocketed with hits like El barco, I felt overwhelmed. There was pressure to keep up with the label. But I chose to pause and redirect myself. For over a year, I'd turn down roles aiming for the 'popstar Mario.' It tested my resilience and self-identity greatly."
Staying grounded has always been important to Casas. He openly admits the pivotal role his family has played throughout his career and personal life. "My family has always been there for me. I heavily rely on my mom; we share everything," he stated. His admiration for his family is palpable; he describes them as his anchors. His brother Óscar, who is also crafting his career, is especially close to him. "If Mom doesn’t approve of something, none of us end up doing it," he shared, showcasing the family's cohesive bond.
While balancing work, family, and self-care, Mario Casas manages to captivate audiences both on-screen and off. He recently revealed how he takes pleasure in savoring life's simple moments without distractions. His transition from the party scene to embracing tranquility is equipping him with tools for growth and stabilizing his relationships. "This experience has changed my life positively—I enjoy everything," he adds, acknowledging his newfound zest for life.
With his focus steering away from the excessively glamorous lifestyle he once led, he’s charting new territories professionally and personally. Join him on this remarkable transformative path as he promises more heartfelt performances like El secreto del Orfebre. The film not only marks another milestone but symbolizes his growth—a narrative fitting for the man who embraced sobriety and self-care with unyielding resolve. Casas leaves fans excited about what the future holds as he continues to evolve both on and off-screen.