Behind The Glam: Patricia López Arnaiz And Raúl Cimas' Secret Escape From Stardom

The Unlikely Stars of Spanish Cinema

Patricia López Arnaiz and Raúl Cimas are riding high on the wave of their flourishing careers. Patricia, hailed as an auteur film star, gained immense acclaim with her roles in "20,000 especies de abejas" (2023) and "Chinas" (2024). Meanwhile, Raúl, a beloved comedian, has crossed over into the realm of dramatic acting, earning accolades for his role in the series "Poquita fe." Despite their divergent artistic paths, these two share a bond much deeper than the art they create.

In the Spotlight: Award Nominations

Both artists are basking in the glow of nominations for Spain's prestigious Forqué and Feroz awards. Patricia is vying for Best Actress for her compelling performance in "Los domingos," a drama directed by Alauda Ruiz de Azúa, where she portrays a woman challenging her family's acceptance of her niece's convent life. Raúl, on the other hand, is in the running for Best Actor in a Series for his standout role in the second season of "Poquita fe." Critics and audiences alike are showering them with praise, despite their different genres.

“This peace gives me strength and brings me joy,” Patricia explains her choice to live away from the limelight.

From Unlikely Beginnings to Stardom

Interestingly, neither Patricia nor Raúl initially set out to become actors. Raúl pursued fine arts at the University of Castilla-La Mancha, while Patricia graduated with a degree in advertising from the University of the Basque Country. Raúl left his studies unfinished to dive headfirst into comedy, a decision that quickly paid off. Patricia, though she completed her degree, never felt drawn to the advertising world. Her journey to the big screen began in theater, leading to her breakout role in "La peste" in 2018.

The Quiet Life Away from Fame

One of the biggest things these stars have in common is their intentional retreat from the bustling life of fame. Patricia, originally from Vitoria, has opted for the tranquility of a small village in Álava, shunning social media and smartphones for a simple Nokia. "This peace gives me strength and brings me joy," she shares. Raúl, while maintaining a social media presence for professional purposes, has also chosen solitude. He sold his Barcelona home and embraced life in a small La Alcarria municipality, where he now enjoys gardening and cultivating his own produce.

Returning to Their Roots

As award season gears up, Patricia and Raúl's names will echo at the ceremonies. However, once the festivities conclude and the cameras dim, they will slip back into their cherished quiet lives, far removed from the red carpets. Patricia, already a Goya winner for Best Actress in "The Daughter," and Raúl, a pioneer of Spanish comedy, continue to inspire with their dedication to both their craft and their peaceful existence.