The controversy began when a provocative message aimed at Paul Motors sparked a public clash with the Ministry of Equality over corporate announcements. A presenter, under pressure, was challenged by a guest who noticed himself reflected in the media narrative and asked what kind of underwear he wore. The moment, seen as a hit on machismo, drew immediate criticism on social media and in video clips that reminded viewers of past uncomfortable incidents. Elsa Pataky, among others, weighed in as discussion moved beyond a single incident. The exchange ignited a broader debate about what is appropriate on screen and how power dynamics shape public reception.
The film in question, which featured Motos and drew strong audience engagement, became a focal point for criticism directed at the show and its collaborators. Nuria Roca, Juan del Val, Cristina Pardo, and Tamara Falcó joined Ana Rosa Quintana in voicing concerns about the campaign. They criticized the approach, while Telecinco faced questions about its operations and programming choices. The debate extended to the network’s online presence, where content was reportedly removed from the El Hormiguero site to protect the server. Some outlets suggested that this was part of a broader tactic to block content deemed sexist, adding to a climate of intense media scrutiny.
Pataky’s example may not be the most representative, as Motos himself notes a broader context: a lingerie parade hosted by the actress. Still, other moments in the program have sparked controversy, and the discussion includes more participants beyond a single incident. It is clear that the show does not feature only one gender in the crosshairs of opinion; several guests have been involved, and critiques have touched multiple perspectives.
1.Virginia Teacher
The fallout from the Ministry of Equality controversy extended to Virginia Teacher, the winner of the sixth season of OT. She shared on Twitter how uncomfortable the incident made her feel. In 2009 she wore a dress with fabric cuts that revealed her chest, and the presenter admitted he could not make eye contact. Reflecting thirteen years later, she described the incident as macho, violent, uncomfortable, seedy, and very unfortunate. She urged greater accountability from those in power and called for fewer deletions and more apologies, stating that everyone makes mistakes and that owning them is wiser.
2. Monica Carrillo
During an appearance on El Hormiguero to promote a new novel in 2017, Monica Carrillo faced ridicule when jokes turned toward an erotic reading of her work. The moment drew more attention to the host’s approach than to the literary content. Some observers felt the reading was inappropriate, while others defended Carrillo’s poise. The host did not publicly comment on the incident, leaving the discussion to fans and critics to interpret whether it caused lasting discomfort or controversy.
3. Charlize Theron
International attention sharpened when Charlize Theron appeared with Kristen Stewart to promote Snow White and the Huntsman in 2012. On the Jimmy Kimmel show, Theron recalled confusion as music with sexual overtones played while she was expected to dance. The moment sparked conversations about how media frames female guests and how interviews should respect personal boundaries. Theron later participated again in 2017, though she left the stage early, and she later offered a gracious apology on social media.
4. Anastacia
The program faced backlash after a moment involving Anastacia, who described the host’s gesture as overly familiar when he kissed her neck. Viewers noted repeated close exchanges during the farewell, with online discussions emphasizing the need for greater sensitivity from hosts toward both male and female guests. Critics argued that overt affectionate behavior from a male host toward staff can blur professional boundaries.
5. Ed Sheeran
Occasional offhand remarks also drew attention. When the host suggested Sheeran did not fit the classic image of a handsome pop star, the singer countered with a broader reminder that many legendary performers have varied looks. His response celebrated the diversity of pop icons, underscoring how audience perception can differ from media narratives about attractiveness.
6. Peter Dinklage
In another misstep, Peter Dinklage found his interview with the host shaped by a remark about dwarfs in fiction. The host suggested a sensitivity to fictional characters while praising Dinklage’s work, which led to a witty exchange. The audience reaction reflected a mix of applause and discomfort, illustrating the challenge of balancing humor with respect on a crowded talk show stage.
7. Sexualizing a Young Guest
A 2020 episode involving a nine-year-old actor attracted criticism when the host posed a question that teased romance options. The incident raised alarms about the line between playful banter and inappropriate insinuations with young performers. The guest’s age amplified the concerns, prompting calls for clearer boundaries and protective measures to safeguard child participants in television productions.
8. Heart Rate Monitor with Imanol Arias
One recurring feature on the show is a series of tests designed to measure guests’ reactions and patience. A segment involving a movement and a parade of young women in bikinis drew sharp criticism for perceived machismo and objectification. Critics argued that such stunts reduce guests to visual props rather than recognizing their talents and contributions to the program.
9. Rayden and Rigoberta Bandini
Rappers and performers have also spoken out. Rayden has criticized objectification on the show, while Rigoberta Bandini has expressed reluctance about returning, citing discomfort with how dialogue is framed. The exchanges highlight the ongoing tension between creative expression and respectful treatment of guests, a theme that continues to spark debate among artists and audiences alike.
10. Criticism of Pandemic Management
Beyond the studio floor, the program has faced scrutiny for revisiting pandemic-era debates and for challenging government responses to health crises. Critics pointed to statements about vaccine policy and public administration, including remarks that drew comparisons to political figures. While some viewers challenged the tone, others argued that such critiques reflect the show’s habit of pushing boundaries and provoking strong opinions. The discussion underscored how commentators navigate public health conversations, balancing satire, critique, and accountability while avoiding personal attacks.