Antonio Banderas Reflects on His Move Back to Spain and Hollywood Career

Antonio Banderas recently discussed his decision to leave Los Angeles and return to his hometown in Spain. In an interview with People, the 65-year-old actor revealed how his love for Melanie Griffith initially brought him to Los Angeles. Griffith had two young children, making it difficult for her to move to Spain. Banderas shared that while the years in Los Angeles were memorable, he always felt they were temporary, with Málaga, his hometown, calling him back.

Banderas and Griffith married in 1996 after meeting on the set of the movie “Two Much.” They welcomed their daughter Stella in September of the same year. The couple was together for 18 years before Griffith filed for divorce in June 2014, citing irreconcilable differences. Their divorce was finalized in December 2015.

Banderas reflected on their separation, highlighting their honesty during the process. “When we separated, we were always very sincere. And now she is, if not my best friend, one of my best friends,” he said.

During their marriage, Banderas was the stepfather to Griffith’s two children, Alexander Bauer and actress Dakota Johnson. Banderas expressed interest in collaborating with Johnson, commending her acting skills.

Banderas is currently working on the Anthony Bourdain biopic “Tony.” He gained significant recognition in Hollywood with his role in the movie “Philadelphia” in 1993. He starred in several other films including “Interview with the Vampire,” “Desperado,” “The Mask of Zorro,” and “Pain and Glory,” the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination in 2020.

Reflecting on his early experiences in Hollywood, Banderas recalled being stereotyped to play villainous roles due to his ethnicity. However, he broke through those barriers, gaining fame for roles such as the hero in “The Mask of Zorro” and giving voice to “Puss in Boots,” a character with a Spanish accent that became beloved by children.