Marisa Paredes, a well-known personality in Spanish cinema and close colleague of famed director Pedro Almodóvar, has died at the age of 78. The Spanish Film Academy reported her death, writing, “Spanish cinema is losing one of its most iconic actresses.”
Paredes’ career lasted nearly six decades, including over 75 films and a similar number of television shows. She is largely recognized as one of the most accomplished actresses of her time. Her work with Almodóvar includes remarkable performances in films like High Heels (1991), The Flower of My Secret (1995), All About My Mother (1999), and The Skin I Live In (2011).
Her journey to popularity was fueled by personal dedication. In an emotional interview with Spain’s TVE in June, Paredes discussed her poor beginnings as “the daughter of a doorkeeper.” At 15, she went on a hunger strike to encourage her father to support her acting career.
Desolado por la noticia del fallecimiento de Marisa Paredes, una de las actrices más importantes que ha dado nuestro país.
Su presencia en cine y teatro y su compromiso con la democracia serán un ejemplo para generaciones posteriores.
Un sentido abrazo a su familia y seres… https://t.co/ZpEu85dSf3
— Pedro Sánchez (@sanchezcastejon) December 17, 2024
Throughout her career, Paredes has garnered various awards. These include an honorary Goya Award in 2018, a National Cinematography Award in 1996, and the Gold Medal for Merit in Fine Arts in 2007. She also served as President of the Spanish Film Academy from 2000 to 2003, demonstrating her industry prominence.
In addition to her work with Almodóvar, Paredes has been in acclaimed films like Roberto Benigni’s Life is Beautiful, Arturo Ripstein’s Deep Crimson, and Guillermo del Toro’s The Devil’s Backbone. Her adaptability enabled her to work with notable directors such as Raoul Ruiz, Alain Tanner, and Manoel de Oliveira.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his sorrow, describing Paredes as “one of the most important actresses our country has ever produced.” Her most recent film, Emergency Exit, a road movie directed by Luis Miñarro, was shot earlier this year but has yet to be released.
Paredes is survived by her spouse, Chema Prado, a producer and director of Spain’s Film Archive, and her daughter, María Isasi. Her death is a great loss for Spanish cinema, leaving a strong artistic legacy.