Rai, the Young Spaniard on Screen: A Look at Pablo Capuz’s Rise
Rai, once depicted as an arrogant and ailing young man from a privileged family, left a mark on the popular TV series through actor Pablo Capuz. The show, known for its bold storytelling, introduced Capuz after he chose acting over medical studies. Since then, Capuz has appeared in a variety of projects, from television to cinema and stage, expanding his presence in the international market. In the Chilean-Argentine-Spanish miniseries Allende’s thousand days, the actor stands out as the only Spanish performer among a diverse cast, adding an intriguing layer to the production.
New episodes began arriving on a recent Wednesday, with episodes three and four available to viewers, alongside the complete four-episode arc streaming on RTVE Play. The narrative centers on the development of a political landscape during a tumultuous period, with Capuz shaping the central character through which the story unfolds.
The story unfolds through his character and invites viewers to learn more about him.
Manuel Ruiz appears as Allende’s personal political advisor, a character inspired by the real figure Joan Garcés. Garcés, who pursued a master’s degree at the Sorbonne in Paris, traveled to Chile after hearing of Salvador Allende’s pursuit of a transition from socialism to freedom. He desired insights into a country emerging from civil conflict and dictatorship that mirrored aspects of his own Spain. Ruiz becomes Allende’s walking encyclopedia and trusted confidant. On September 11, 1973, the day Pinochet’s coup reshaped history, Allende entrusts Ruiz with a critical mission: to preserve the truth by leaving the palace and telling the world the story himself.
Is the portrayal faithful to Garcés?
Indeed, Garcés dedicated his life to documenting Chilean events, defending victims of torture and state violence, and seeking reparations. He remains alive, and the production team consulted him to gain deeper insights into his personality and his relationship with Allende. Though he has not returned to Chile since that era, his career as a lawyer since 1990 has included leading legal actions against rights abuses. The project notes his Nobel-like impact in defending human rights, underscoring the weight of the historical context.
How did Capuz land this role?
Both the casting director and the series creator screened potential actors for the young Spaniard. The casting team recalled Capuz from Merlí: sapere aude, recognizing a unique quality that could translate into a memorable performance. A photo confirmed the likeness, and the creative team agreed on Capuz as the right fit. The moment of casting felt almost inevitable, as if fate nudged the decision forward.
What was it like collaborating with Chilean actors and translators?
Capuz describes the experience as a privilege to work alongside Chile’s esteemed talents. Among his colleagues, Alfredo Castro stood out, celebrated for achievements and respected by peers. The exchange of ideas and mutual respect left a lasting impression. Castro’s simple, supportive message—congratulatory and encouraging—highlighted a culture of humility among the cast. The personal notes exchanged about mundane matters, like a heater or a potential service interruption, reflected a sense of camaraderie beyond the screen.
Humility and talent define the ensemble, Capuz suggests, with the younger performers sometimes carrying ego and complexity. Yet the overall atmosphere emphasizes collaboration and growth behind the scenes.
“A Pause to Reflect on Chilean History and Global Trends”
The production captured a moment that resonates beyond its screens. The director and crew faced real-world responses during the shoot, including demonstrations that referenced contemporary debates such as education laws. Capuz recalls feeling the weight of history as a reminder that political tides shift over decades, reminding the world of how fragile democracy can be. These scenes became more than acting; they connected viewers to a longer arc of history and its present-day reverberations.
Did Capuz study these events in school? He acknowledges awareness of Allende and Pinochet but says the emotional depth came from standing inside the Moneda Palace during filming. The sensory memory of the moment—the echo of history and the weight of the past—left a lasting impression on him, adding a sense of responsibility to his craft.
This is Capuz’s second international series, and he notes that today’s landscape offers abundant opportunities across platforms, though it also brings competition and the occasional mismatch in casting. He observes a trend toward valuing distinctive characters who defy conventional molds, drawing inspiration from diverse performances that showcase different masculinities and storytelling approaches.
“Pressure and Performance: From Merlí to Global Screens”
The pressure of following a successful role is real. In early 2022, Capuz faced a flurry of auditions, often advancing far only to face renewed rejection. He describes the cycle as exhausting yet part of an invisible labor that fuels growth and resilience. Yet the experience also sharpened his focus on choosing roles that challenge norms and offer actors a chance to break away from predictable patterns.
He reflects on Rai’s arc in Merlí as transformative, noting that while the character could be perceived as distant, it opened doors for audiences to see a different side of the actor. Capuz emphasizes the importance of embracing diverse characters and the value of ongoing exploration in his career.
What lies ahead? Capuz mentions an art residency that includes a monologue he began in 2021. He plans a rigorous rehearsal schedule until April, followed by a brief window to present the work and gauge interest from programmers for the next theater season. This next phase signals a continued commitment to artistic experimentation and stage presence alongside screen work.
In sum, Capuz’s journey from a screen portrayal of a troubled young man to a globally recognized actor reflects a blend of bold choices, respectful collaboration, and a willingness to confront historical narratives with honesty and energy. His path underscores the enduring power of storytelling to illuminate human stories across borders and time, inviting audiences to engage with the past while watching for the future.