There was a clear readiness to discuss the issue openly. The presenter and actor emphasized that silence is not a solution and that fear should not silence important conversations. That sentiment was shared during a Friday discussion led by Berto Romero, who urged openness about the topic.
The central topic at the event was the impact of allegations surrounding director Carlos Vermut, a focus that dominated the 11th edition of the Feroz Awards, a ceremony that honors achievements across the Spanish audiovisual sector. The awards night highlighted how the industry is confronting difficult realities and the broader implications for everyone involved in the production, distribution, and promotion of cinema and television in Spain.
Three women accuse director Carlos Vermut of sexual violence
In the surrounding context, renowned filmmaker Isabel Coixet, who was nominated for Best Director for the film Un amor, addressed the gathering. Coixet noted that the industry appears to be facing hard truths with a willingness to confront them and to acknowledge the pain experienced by survivors. She remarked that the spotlight now falls on why victims were previously silenced and how the conversation has evolved to address these concerns more directly.
One of the key voices at the event underscored that identifying someone as a survivor should never be treated as surrendering ownership of one’s agency. The moment an individual speaks out about being a victim, there is a risk of stigma and heightened vulnerability, making clear the need for a respectful and supportive response. The speaker stressed that explaining one’s experience is often a difficult, deeply personal process, and many prefer to avoid that burden rather than face judgment.
Actress María Botto welcomed the broader social shift, praising the arrival of #MeToo as a catalyst for Spain. She noted that the conversation has moved beyond sexual violence to examine patterns of power and abuse that have long affected the industry. Botto highlighted that this is a period of change and reflection for those who work in front of and behind the camera, inviting a more accountable culture across all levels of the field.
Luisa Gavasa, nominated for Best Supporting Actress for Master of the Word, spoke about the importance of progress in investigations and the recognition of the courage shown by survivors. Gavasa highlighted that the ongoing process should be fair, thorough, and capable of validating the experiences of those who come forward, so that justice and accountability can follow. Her comments emphasized the need for a careful, measured response that protects everyone involved while honoring the seriousness of the allegations.
Producer María Zamora added her voice to the discourse, thanking victims for their bravery and encouraging others to take similar steps. Zamora stressed the necessity of acknowledging the gravity of each case and recognizing the broader patterns within the industry. She called for heightened awareness of the signs that point to serious misconduct, noting that addressing these realities is essential for the health and integrity of the Spanish audiovisual community as a whole.