Lucía Caraballo says that understanding people, including characters with whom she may disagree, is central to her work as an actress. She tries to approach each role without prejudice, focusing on what the character does, feels and wants rather than defining them through adjectives.
The Madrid-born performer began dancing and acting at the age of eight. She later appeared in projects including ‘Estoy vivo’, ‘Me gusta conducir’ and ‘Animal’, the series that helped bring her wider recognition. At 27, she describes herself as a young veteran and says that her career has progressed gradually, with each project leading to the next.
Caraballo is now promoting the film ‘La maleta’ and is preparing to shoot her first major leading role. She has also recently changed her hair colour for an upcoming comedy directed by a well-known filmmaker, although she cannot yet discuss the project.
The actress says that curiosity is essential to her profession. She reads, watches films and theatre, observes people and tries to keep her attention open to the world around her. She also credits her parents with supporting her ambitions while allowing her the freedom to make mistakes. At 18, she left for London intending to stay for two months and ended up remaining longer than planned.
Caraballo acknowledges that she has had considerable good fortune, including a stable family, close friendships and the opportunity to work in a difficult profession. She also points to the support of directors and colleagues. Borja Cobeaga recommended her to Víctor García León and Aitor Gabilondo, which helped her secure a role in ‘Animal’.
She recalls learning a great deal while working on ‘Me gusta conducir’, where she shared the spotlight with Juan Diego Botto. Although praise makes her uncomfortable, she says the experience was important because she was treated as an equal and encouraged to contribute her own ideas.
Beyond acting, Caraballo speaks openly about housing, politics and the importance of defending people’s identities. She supports the view that housing is a right and says she would have joined her friends’ protest camp in Madrid’s Puerta del Sol. She also says she tries to remain informed, listen to different opinions and believe in dialogue, provided it respects tolerance and rights.
For her, denying identities and promoting hatred are clear limits. She distinguishes between trying to understand people and excusing their actions, and rejects the idea that messages intended to encourage hatred should be protected as freedom of expression.
Caraballo also highlights her relationship with Luis Zahera, her co-star in ‘Animal’. She says he gave her space to grow professionally and treated her as an equal, helping her avoid feeling overwhelmed by working alongside someone she admired. She describes him as a friend, colleague and part of her family.
Sources: El País Cultura.