Antonio Banderas shared insights into his decision to leave Los Angeles and return to his native Spain. In a recent conversation with People, the 65-year-old actor revealed that his move to Los Angeles was initially driven by love for Melanie Griffith. At the time, she had two young children and relocation to Spain was not feasible for her.
Banderas described his time in Los Angeles as beautiful but temporary. He felt a strong connection to his hometown, Málaga, believing it was always where he belonged. ‘I knew that Málaga was there, my hometown. I was not supposed to be in Malibu, but in Málaga,’ he stated.
The couple, Griffith and Banderas, married in 1996 following their meeting on the set of “Two Much” in 1995. That same year, they welcomed their daughter, Stella. Despite moving to Los Angeles for Griffith, Banderas always intended to return to Spain.
Banderas always knew he would return to his hometown in Spain after moving to Los Angeles to be with Melanie Griffith. (Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images)
The marriage lasted 18 years, ending with Griffith filing for divorce in June 2014 due to irreconcilable differences. Their divorce was finalized in December 2015. Banderas expressed that their separation was amicable, and he considers Griffith one of his best friends.
During their marriage, Banderas also fulfilled the role of stepfather to Griffith’s children, Alexander Bauer and Dakota Johnson. Speaking to E! News, Banderas expressed a desire to work with Dakota Johnson, praising her acting skills. ‘She’s a good actress in many different ways, because she’s a great comedian, too,’ he commented.
Banderas said he would love to work with Johnson on a film. (Amy Sussman/Getty Images)
Banderas is currently appearing in the Anthony Bourdain biopic “Tony”. His notable entry into mainstream American cinema occurred with “Philadelphia” in 1993. Some of his well-known roles include parts in “Interview with the Vampire,” “Desperado,” “The Mask of Zorro,” and “Pain and Glory,” the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination.
Reflecting on his early Hollywood experience during an interview with The Times, Banderas recounted being cast in villainous roles typically assigned to minorities. He highlighted the significance of roles like ‘Puss in Boots’, which portrayed a positive character with a Spanish accent.
Banderas recalled being told he would never play anything except a villain in Hollywood. (Juan Naharro Gimenez/Getty Images)
Lori A. Bashian is a writer for Fox News Digital, specializing in entertainment news.