Santiago Segura: From Comedy Icon to Castle Owner – A Look at His Life and Growing Empire
If you happen to encounter Santiago Segura in Madrid, you’re likely to find him strolling the streets of the Conde Duque neighborhood, sporting a cap in an attempt to blend in. Though, he rarely succeeds. While Torrente may be an exaggerated character, his creator remains one of the most recognizable faces in Spanish cinema. And he’s back in the spotlight with his latest film, Torrente: presidente, which has broken box office records: over 300,000 viewers on its first day and a revenue of around 2.4 million euros. This success confirms his enduring appeal after more than thirty years in the industry.
A Quiet Life in a Trendy Neighborhood
This professional success is balanced by a relatively peaceful life in the capital. Born in Carabanchel, he now resides in the vibrant Conde Duque area, situated between Malasaña and the Palacio de Liria. He owns a spacious apartment near the Temple of Debod, surrounded by cafes, alternative theaters, art galleries, and cultural spaces. The neighborhood has become a highly sought-after place to live, with property prices exceeding 7,500 euros per square meter – a large apartment can easily cost over a million euros.
Family as a Cornerstone
However, the most significant change in his life came with family. He is married to María Amaro, a film makeup artist whom he met during the filming of the first Torrente movie in 1998. Their story resembles a romantic comedy. He pursued her for ten years before she finally agreed to go on a date with him, as he recounted, “I chased her for ten years until she said yes.”
They eventually started a family with their daughters, Calma, born in 2008, and Sirena, in 2013. He rarely discusses his private life, but when he does, he emphasizes its importance. He has repeatedly stated in interviews that his wife is the best thing that has ever happened to him. Becoming a father also transformed many aspects of his life, including his approach to filmmaking. It’s no coincidence that he has recently found success with the family saga Padre no hay más que uno, designed to be enjoyed with children.
Expanding the Portfolio: From Film to Real Estate
Meanwhile, his wealth has also grown. He recently made a notable move: purchasing a castle. In 2024, along with José Mota and producer Luis Álvarez, he acquired the Pedraza Castle in Segovia for approximately 4.8 million euros. This medieval fortress boasts nearly 700 square meters of built space, six bedrooms, a swimming pool, and 30,000 square meters of land. The castle has a rich history, having been the residence of painter Ignacio Zuloaga and is considered one of the best-preserved castles in Spain. Today, it is open to visitors and hosts weddings and events.
Physical Transformations and Health Focus
Another aspect that has marked his career has been the physical changes he’s undergone to portray Torrente. He has gained weight several times to embody the character, adding between 20 and 30 kilos during some shoots. At one point, he reached 116 kilos, a fact he has shared with his characteristic humor, stating he ate “like an animal” to prepare for the role.
Over time, he realized these constant changes were detrimental to his health. He now aims to maintain a weight between 70 and 75 kilos. To achieve this, he follows a strict routine, including intermittent fasting and periods of up to 18 hours without eating. He acknowledges this may seem extreme and doesn’t recommend it to others, but assures it helps him balance occasional indulgences.
Dietary Changes and Health Management
His diet has also changed significantly. He has eliminated sugar, flour, and processed pastries. “Before, I would eat anything for breakfast. Now I have black bread with avocado,” he explained in an interview. This dietary care is also linked to a health issue he faces: pancreatic insufficiency, a digestive disorder that requires careful monitoring of food intake. He has stated it doesn’t prevent him from working, but causes discomfort if he doesn’t accept care.
Despite these considerations, he still enjoys occasional treats. One of his favorite pastimes is dining on sushi. In fact, he celebrated his 60th birthday at a Japanese buffet in the capital, Miho Sushi, a place he frequents when he wants a gastronomic indulgence.
FAQ
Q: Where does Santiago Segura live?
A: He lives in the Conde Duque neighborhood of Madrid.
Q: What is Santiago Segura’s latest film?
A: His latest film is Torrente: presidente.
Q: What castle did Santiago Segura purchase?
A: He purchased the Pedraza Castle in Segovia.
Q: Does Santiago Segura have children?
A: Yes, he has two daughters, Calma and Sirena.
