Morante de la Puebla, the iconic Spanish bullfighter, is making headlines once again, this time not for his feats in the arena but for his courageous battle with mental health issues which have kept him off the circuits. After having to cut his season short last year due to severe psychological distress, Morante has shared his struggles with the public, shedding light on the darker corners of mental health within the demanding world of bullfighting. His recent interview with the Spanish daily ABC reveals the depth of his battle with dissociative disorder and depression, terrifying afflictions he has endured for over 20 years.
Currently residing in Marinha Grande, Portugal, at the home of his friend and manager, Pedro Marqués, Morante is undergoing intensive therapy which includes electroconvulsive treatment aimed at alleviating his severe depressive state. The treatment is significant and risky; he’s already experiencing temporary memory loss as part of its side effects, including forgetting some of the most glorious moments of his career. Reflecting on this, Morante stated, "It’s been a daily suffering and crying. I was losing all the enthusiasm needed to stand before the bulls and the public." He reconciles with the reality of his condition, acknowledging, "I thought of death as relief, but I cannot allow myself such thoughts because I have family and responsibilities."
Despite the heavy cloud of despair, the talented torero shows signs of hope and resilience. He is preparing for his return to the bullring, scheduled to make his comeback at the Feria de Olivenza on March 8, 2025. With determination, he asserts, "I am going with the best of intentions," emphasizing his commitment to regain both his health and his career. "I can’t wait to get back to normalcy and the joy of performing live," he shared.
The past few years have been tumultuous, described by Morante as feeling like “an walking corpse” amid his struggles with treatment adjustments and the weight of expectations from fans and colleagues. Yet, he seeks solace not only through bullfighting but also through personal connections, establishing deep ties with his supporting community, especially with Marqués and his family. The bonds formed over this period have nurtured Morante’s recovery, helping him regain his footing.
While he is immensely passionate about his craft, Morante is also acutely aware of the stigma surrounding mental health, especially within competitive sports. During interviews, he emphasizes the importance of normalizing visits to psychiatrists, advocating for open conversations about mental illnesses. This sentiment has echoed among many fans and mental health advocates who appreciate his willingness to be vulnerable. Cristina López Schlichting, host of Fin de Semana on COPE, commended Morante's courage, stating, "Thank you for your bravery, not just on the field but also off it, as you confront the stigmas associated with mental health."
Morante's mental health battle not only highlights the pressures athletes face but also positions him as a role model. A pivotal moment for him has been the acknowledgment of his illness's toll, allowing him to revisit past successes with clarity and humility. He said, "The time is coming to take charge of my life, to face my demons, and to bring back the joy of bullfighting to my life."
His return to the ring is poised not only as a personal victory but as part of what may become overwhelming support from fans and the bullfighting community. The anticipation builds as Morante prepares for his first performance after his hiatus: "There will be uncertainty, but there will also be the joy of returning to where I feel most alive," he expressed. Many bullfighting fans eagerly await his comeback, hoping to witness the artistry of one of Spain's most cherished toreros once again.
But beyond the adrenaline of the arena, Morante has embraced traveling around Europe as part of his recovery. He visits cities such as Paris and Rome, using travel as therapeutic exploration to uplift his spirits and find peace among arts and culture—a welcome distraction from the shadows of his condition. He’s shared his newfound appreciation for prominent figures like writer Fernando Pessoa, recognizing parallels between their mental struggles and creative geniuses. "I suppose they thought Pessoa was mad too, but he became unique and extraordinary with time," he reflected.
Looking forward, Morante de la Puebla emphasizes his desire not just to return to bullfighting but to evolve his artistry. He plans to improve his technical skills and become the best version of himself—both as a bullfighter and as a person—balancing his responsibilities with the enduring passion he holds for the sport. He recently mentioned his newly acquired cattle as part of establishing his family legacy, hoping to contribute to the future of bullfighting.
His upcoming performances are not merely events; they signify resilience and the human spirit's capacity to overcome even the darkest challenges. Morante's return resonates as he embodies strength against the odds, providing inspiration and insight to many who suffer from similar afflictions. His story has sparked conversations about mental health across the community, building ground for awareness and support.
Expectations remain high as the torero steps back onto the stage, and everyone waits to see which Morante will return: the artist, the torero, or something new altogether. Yet one thing shines brightly: his heart remains intertwined with the bulls and the thrill of the corrida. Through his struggle, Morante de la Puebla echoes a powerful message: it's not merely about victories but the courage to sustain oneself and push through life's most demanding trials.
With anticipation hanging thick in the air, the bullfighting world watches closely. March 8 will mark not just Morante's return but also shine as a beacon of hope for many, illuminating the fight against the stigma surrounding mental health. Edging back to the spotlight, he reminds us all of the relentless pursuit of passion, resilience, and the wise reminder to be open about our struggles, reflecting the heart of humanity.