The highest distinction from the Spanish Film Academy, the Goya of Honour 2025, will be awarded to Aitana Sánchez Gijón at the upcoming gala. She reflected that despite her surprise, she graciously accepted the recognition and looked back on her extensive career in cinema, television, and theater.
Born in Rome to a Spanish father, Sánchez Gijón pursued her acting career in Spain, where she quickly became a key figure in the arts. Beginning in the 1980s, her talent allowed her to rise quickly, establishing herself as one of the most recognized actresses in Spain. While her debut in cinema came with Romanza final, it was during the 1990s that she gained widespread fame. Films such as Boca a boca by Manuel Gómez Pereira and La camarera del Titanic by Bigas Luna gave her considerable visibility, both in Spain and abroad.
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A key moment in her career came in 1995 with her role in A Walk in the Clouds, where she starred alongside Keanu Reeves in a Hollywood production. This international project significantly expanded her reach, showcasing her versatility and firmly establishing her as an internationally recognized actress.
Throughout her career, Sánchez Gijón has been the recipient of numerous accolades and has been nominated for many awards, including the Goya Awards. In 1998, she became the first woman and the youngest person to be elected president of the Spanish Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Her presidency reflected her deep commitment to Spanish cinema and her influence on the industry, helping to shape its direction and global presence.
Her extensive career spans over four decades, with work in film, television, and theater. She remains highly respected both in Spain and internationally for her wide-ranging talents and ability to embody diverse and complex roles. This latest recognition serves as a testament to her enduring influence on the film industry.
The upcoming Goya Awards ceremony will serve as a tribute to her accomplishments and her continued legacy in Spanish and international cinema.Sánchez Gijón’s impact on Spanish cinema goes beyond her on-screen performances. She has consistently been a force within the arts community, contributing not just through her acting but also by supporting the development of young talent and advocating for the Spanish film industry. Her time as president of the Spanish Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is remembered for her efforts to promote Spanish cinema both domestically and on the international stage.
Her body of work includes a variety of roles that demonstrate her range and depth as an actress. Whether in dramas, comedies, or period films, Sánchez Gijón’s performances have always been marked by their emotional authenticity and complexity. From playing a strong-willed waitress in La camarera del Titanic to embodying different historical and contemporary figures, she has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to diverse genres and characters.
Beyond her well-known roles, she has also been a prominent figure in Spanish theater, performing in both classic and contemporary productions. Her work on stage has been highly acclaimed, with critics praising her command of language, expression, and ability to connect with audiences in live performances.
Her contributions to television have also been significant, with her involvement in series that are both commercially successful and critically lauded. These roles have further solidified her standing as a multi-talented actress capable of excelling in a variety of media.
As she receives this lifetime achievement award, Sánchez Gijón joins an esteemed group of Spanish artists who have previously been honored for their contributions to film. The Goya of Honour celebrates not just a lifetime of individual achievements but also recognizes her role as a cultural ambassador for Spanish cinema. Her work has left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring countless actors and filmmakers and helping to elevate the global perception of Spanish films.
Looking forward, her influence is expected to continue shaping the film industry. Whether through new roles or her mentorship of emerging talent, Sánchez Gijón remains a pivotal figure in both Spanish and international cinema. The recognition she receives with the Goya of Honour 2025 is not only a celebration of her past accomplishments but a recognition of her ongoing contributions to the world of film.
