heated debates
Television is revisiting classic shows from the era, and one of the era’s biggest talking points is making a comeback. A one-day special is planned for Tuesday, December 12 at 22:50, designed for fans of the bold program led by Xavier Sardà. This nostalgic trip aims to celebrate the rise of the Spanish small screen from 1997 to 2005.
Carlos Latre, the creator of the special and a guiding voice for the journey back in time alongside Sardà, speaks about the project. He explains to El Periódico de Catalunya from the Prensa Ibérica group that the program deserves a strong sense of memory and justice.
The comedian, renowned for his numerous parodies on the Martian Chronicles, acknowledges how difficult it would be to produce a similar daily show today. He notes that Sardà, now 65, has repeatedly said he cannot keep up with the pace. Latre adds that today audiences are highly sensitive, and hosts must speak plainly so their messages cannot be misinterpreted on the channels. If the Martian Chronicles were on air now, he believes, controversy would ignite rather than quiet down.
El Hormiguero, the son of Crónicas
The special will feature Paz Padilla, Fernando Ramos, Rocío Madrid, Rosario Pardo, Xavier Deltell, Mariano Mariano, and Javier Cárdenas, among others who will attend. Also appearing are Boris Izaguirre, Leonardo Dantés, Frank Blanco, Loles León, Ramoncín, Enrique del Pozo, Pilar Rahola, Marta López, Javier Nart, Susana Reche, Toni Clapés, Juan Carlos Ortega, and Marbelys Zamora. The assembled lineup reflects the breadth of memories tied to the show, with many participants recalling how much they learned from the experience. The overall sentiment is that love is what endures over time, Latre notes, while he continues to work on another TV project he describes as a child of Crónicas but less rowdy for its time slot.
Latre emphasizes that most participants cherish the memories of the program, because it offered a platform to discuss topics rarely addressed on television. The approach was bold, touching the heart with a powerful honesty about social issues, even when the program sparked political debate that some editors did not favor. He points out that this humor always carried a risk, yet it defined the show’s distinctive voice.
A tribute to those who are no longer here
A tribute segment will honor figures who are no longer with us, including Rosa Maria Sardà, Carmen Hornillos, and the executive producer and creator of the format, Joan Ramon Mainat, among others. The event also acknowledges the lasting impact of personalities who contributed to the program’s legacy.
Is there a chance the Martian Chronicles reunion could become an ongoing series? Latre leaves the door open without promising a continuation. He notes that the special has been agreed upon, and if it performs well, it could spur new directions and possibilities in the future.