Video Actor: Aixa Villagrán
Aixa Villagrán, born on July 12, 1978, in Seville, Spain, has established herself as a versatile and dynamic actress in Spanish cinema and television. Her journey into the world of acting began at a young age, influenced by a family environment that valued the arts. Growing up, she was exposed to theater, cinema, and music, which played a significant role in shaping her artistic inclinations. Her early education at Colegio Aljarafe, where theater was a mandatory subject, provided her with a platform to engage with classic Spanish literature, performing works by Federico García Lorca, Miguel de Cervantes, and Ramón María del Valle-Inclán. This early immersion in the performing arts laid a solid foundation for her future career.
At the age of 20, Villagrán moved to Madrid to pursue formal training in acting. She enrolled at the Juan Carlos Corazza School, a prestigious institution known for honing the skills of many successful Spanish actors. Her dedication and talent earned her a scholarship to further her studies in Mexico at the Patricia Reyes Spíndola School. During her time in Mexico City, she joined the Centro Nacional de las Artes theater company, gaining valuable experience that would later inform her performances on screen and stage.
Upon returning to Spain, Villagrán began to build her career in the entertainment industry. She made her film debut in “Carlos contra el mundo” (2002), directed by Chiqui Carabante, where she played the role of Marga. This was followed by a series of roles in both film and television, showcasing her range as an actress. In 2007, she appeared in “Mataharis,” directed by Icíar Bollaín, portraying a character that added depth to the film’s narrative. The following year, she took on a role in “Mortadelo y Filemón. Misión: Salvar la Tierra” (2008), a comedy directed by Miguel Bardem, which further expanded her repertoire.
Villagrán’s versatility was evident as she seamlessly transitioned between genres and mediums. In 2009, she played Margarita in “Rose et Noir,” a film directed by Gérard Jugnot. Her ability to embody diverse characters made her a sought-after actress in the Spanish entertainment industry. She continued to take on challenging roles, such as her performance in “Amador” (2010), directed by Fernando León de Aranoa, where she contributed to the film’s exploration of complex human relationships.
Her television career was equally impressive, with appearances in popular series that resonated with audiences. She featured in “SMS: Sin Miedo a Soñar,” a series that aired from 2006 to 2007, and “Los hombres de Paco,” where she played the character Leo. Her role as Celia in “Allí abajo” (2016–2018) showcased her comedic timing and endeared her to viewers. Additionally, she portrayed Olivia Sanchís in “Derecho a soñar” (2019), a series that delved into the professional and personal lives of its characters.
A significant milestone in Villagrán’s career came with her portrayal of Esther in the comedy-drama series “Perfect Life” (“Vida perfecta”), which aired from 2019 to 2021. The series, created by Leticia Dolera, received critical acclaim for its honest depiction of women’s lives and relationships. Villagrán’s performance was particularly lauded, earning her the Special Performance Prize at the 2019 Canneseries Festival, an honor she shared with co-stars Leticia Dolera and Celia Freijeiro. This recognition highlighted her ability to bring authenticity and depth to her characters, resonating with both audiences and critics alike.
Following the success of “Perfect Life,” Villagrán continued to take on diverse roles in both film and television. In 2021, she appeared in “Crazy About Her” (“Loco por ella”), a romantic comedy directed by Dani de la Orden, where she played Marta. The film was well-received for its fresh take on the genre and showcased Villagrán’s ability to balance humor with emotional depth. That same year, she featured in “More the Merrier” (“Donde caben dos”), a comedy that explored the complexities of modern relationships, further demonstrating her versatility as an actress.
In 2022, Villagrán took on a role in “On the Fringe” (“En los márgenes”), a drama directed by Juan Diego Botto. The film delved into social issues, and her portrayal of Helena added a nuanced perspective to the narrative. She also starred in “Tomorrow Is Today” (“Mañana es hoy”), a film that combined elements of comedy and science fiction, allowing her to explore a different genre and expand her acting range.
Villagrán’s television work continued to garner attention with her role as Inspectora Belén Millán in “The Snow Girl” (“La chica de nieve”), a series that premiered in 2023. Her portrayal of a determined and insightful inspector added depth to the suspenseful narrative, contributing to the show’s popularity among viewers. She also appeared in “La mesías” (2023), a series that explored complex family dynamics, where her performance as Rosa Joven was noted for its emotional resonance.
In 2024, Villagrán took on the role of Marisa in the television series “Bellas artes,” a comedy that delved into the lives of art students and their creative pursuits. Her character brought a blend of humor and relatability to the series, resonating with audiences. Additionally, she portrayed Eva in the series “Celeste,” a drama that explored personal and professional challenges faced by its characters, showcasing Villagrán’s ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety.
One of her notable film roles in 2024 was in “The Red Virgin” (“La virgen roja”), directed by Paula Ortiz. In the film, Villagrán played Macarena, contributing to the narrative that examined historical and social themes. Her performance was noted for its intensity and commitment, adding depth to the film’s exploration of its subject matter.
Throughout her career, Aixa Villagrán has demonstrated a remarkable ability to embody a wide range of characters across various genres. Her dedication to her craft and her continuous pursuit of challenging roles have solidified her status as a prominent figure in Spanish cinema and television. Her performances are marked by authenticity, emotional depth, and a commitment to storytelling that resonates with audiences.
As of 2025, Villagrán’s body of work reflects her versatility and dedication to the performing arts. Her contributions to both film and television have garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following among viewers. With each role, she continues to push the boundaries of her craft, taking on complex characters that challenge societal norms and explore the human condition. Her journey from a young theater enthusiast in Seville to a celebrated actress on international platforms like Amazon Prime Video serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and a testament to her talent and perseverance.
In addition to her acting career, Villagrán’s personal experiences and background have influenced her artistic choices. Her time spent studying and working in Mexico provided her with a diverse cultural perspective, enriching her performances and understanding of different narratives. This international experience has allowed her to bring a unique depth to her characters, making her performances relatable .