Orestes Barbero became a household name through months of daily television appearances, solidifying his status in the national spotlight. Whether a Pasapalabra enthusiast or not, it was striking that he faced a rival from Burgos who had shattered nearly every record on the competition’s route—except one: the two million euro jackpot remained elusive. His fiercest rival and occasional companion in the game, Rafa Castano, walked away with a substantial prize, while Orestes also left the studio with a sizeable amount of winnings banked for the day’s success.
Weeks later, audiences learned that Orestes would be returning to television, though not on Antena 3 or within Pasapalabra. This time he would join TVE on El Cazador, a program he already knows well from earlier appearances. The roster of familiar faces was already filling in as colleagues prepared to share the stage once more.
Last shot for Orestes: the final moment for a Pasapalabra contestant
Orestes Barbero’s signing comes in the wake of a sudden exit from a recent cast member after reports of legal issues were disclosed. The change opens the door for the Burgos native to step into the role of contestant hunter, a position that promises to bring a dynamic energy to the show.
Joining him on the panel are Erundino Alonso from Boom!, Ruth from Knowing and Winning, Paz Herrera from Password, and Lilit Manukyan from Password. The combination of familiar faces and fresh talent is expected to deliver engaging moments for audiences.
Speculation suggests the show will air on TVE from Monday to Friday at 18:50, with Orestes taking on the hunter role from October onward. The format has long been a favorite among viewers who enjoy the thrill of quick thinking, puzzle solving, and strategic teamwork as they watch contestants chase the final prize.
Orestes had previously taken part in this legendary TV competition in 2020, where he walked away with 7,500 euros as a contestant. While he had expressed interest in revisiting the challenge on Saber y Ganar after Pasapalabra, the opportunity presented by TVE appears to have been especially appealing. He returns to a program he already knows well, hosted by Rodrigo Vázquez, and brings with him the experience gained from past appearances as well as the competitive fire that fans remember.