Fans of Pasapalabra watched in disbelief as a surprising moment unfolded on one of Spain’s longest running and most beloved TV competitions. The show has seen its fair share of dramatic episodes, but this instance stood out: a contestant abruptly exiting without a heads up.”
At the start of the episode on Monday, May 22, presenter Roberto Leal announced the unexpected development, leaving a vast audience, both in the studio and watching from home, momentarily stunned by the news. The moment echoed across millions of viewers who tune in week after week to follow the tense word duel and the evolving personalities on screen.
The segment that was supposed to feature a duel in the blue chair did not take place. The contestant in question was not present for the challenge, and the planned confrontation had to be abandoned for that round.
Leal began by delivering a concise update: Encarni Bonillo would not be able to continue on Pasapalabra. The statement marked a rare interruption in the flow of the competition, as Encarni had been part of the show for multiple rounds and stood out in the pack of contestants. Her alliance with another familiar participant in recent duels, Marta Garriga, had helped define a recognizable dynamic for many viewers, reminiscent of the famous partnerships that audiences have come to associate with the program.
Pasapalabra’s most criticized contestant: Viewers want him to leave
In the aftermath of the announcement, the studio and home audiences watched as Marta Garriga took part in a blue chair duel but did not prevail. She exited the blue chair, ending her run for the moment, while Encarni Bonillo had survived just a few more days than her rival before stepping away. The Almerian participant bowed out after 27 appearances, a run that culminated in a moment where the show encountered another familiar name, Moisés, a former contestant associated with a different portion of the Pasapalabra experience.
Encarni leaves Pasapalabra
The focus, beyond the anecdote itself, is what prompted Encarni Bonillo to depart Pasapalabra. Leal addressed the absence in his remarks, keeping specifics limited out of respect for the contestant’s privacy. He noted the decision and described the departure as necessary for personal reasons, while also emphasizing that the team would miss her presence on set and that fans would likely welcome a future return if circumstances allow.
The host mentioned that Encarni would not continue on Pasapalabra for significant personal reasons, and he expressed sincere appreciation for her contributions. He also conveyed a hopeful sentiment, saying he hoped she would be able to return someday. The moment reflected how a single exit can ripple through a long-running program, affecting fans who have followed a contestant through many episodes.
At the time of her departure, Encarni Bonillo had accumulated more than 16,000 euros and had accumulated 27 episodes under her belt. Whether she might reappear on the show at a later date remained uncertain, leaving room for speculation among fans who followed every episode closely.
In the wake of Encarni’s departure, Pasapalabra welcomed a new contestant named Andrea Siualso. Andrea arrived with evident enthusiasm and a strong familiarity with the format, having previously competed in a version of Pasapalabra in Panama. Those memories reportedly included positive experiences that contributed to Andrea’s confidence as she joined the Spanish program, promising an engaging presence for viewers who enjoy fresh competition and new dynamics on the set.