Marta Hazas stands as one of Spain's most recognizable television and film actresses, building a career spanning over two decades. If you're wondering where to start with her extensive filmography, her breakout roles in hit drama series like El internado and the stylish period romance Velvet offer the best entry points. She balances high-stakes drama with sharp comedic timing across dozens of projects.
Born in Santander, Spain, Hazas transitioned from regional theater and minor television spots into a powerhouse performer. She doesn't just stick to one genre; you'll find her starring in daily period melodramas, lighthearted romantic comedies, and tense psychological thrillers. Let's break down her essential filmography, iconic television characters, and hidden gems you might have missed.
Defining Television Roles
Television made Marta Hazas a household name across Spain. Her ability to anchor long-running series made her a staple of prime-time and daily broadcasting.
El internado (The Boarding School)
Airing from 2007 to 2010, this mystery-thriller series catapulted Hazas into national stardom. She played Amelia Ugarte, a sweet-natured teacher whose hidden secrets inside a dark, isolated boarding school kept viewers hooked. The show combined supernatural elements with high-tension drama, and Hazas delivered a performance that anchored the show's emotional core during its 64-episode run. Related reporting on this trend has been shared by GQ.
Velvet
Between 2014 and 2016, Hazas starred as Clara Montesinos in the glitzy fashion-house drama Velvet. Set in a high-end Madrid department store during the late 1950s, the series relied heavily on the chemistry of its ensemble cast. Clara evolves from an ambitious seamstress into a confident executive. Hazas brought infectious energy and sharp wit to the role, which later earned her a continuation in the spin-off series Velvet Colección.
Bandolera and Daily Drama
Before her prime-time hits, Hazas proved her stamina by leading the daily historical series Bandolera. She played Sara Reeves, an English journalist who travels to 19th-century Andalusia and gets swept up in banditry and romance. Sustaining a daily series requires immense discipline, and Hazas anchored over 500 episodes without losing narrative momentum.
Notable Film Appearances
While television defines much of her career, Hazas has maintained a steady presence in Spanish cinema through comedies and dramas.
Romantic Comedies and Ensemble Casts
Hazas often shines in ensemble comedy features. In 8 Dates (2008), she explored the complexities of modern dating through a series of structured vignettes. Later, she appeared in the adaptation of the hit play Toc Toc (2017) and co-starred in films like Friends Till Death (2023), directed by her husband, Javier Veiga. More recently, she expanded her international footprint by appearing in Prime Video's adaptation of the bestselling book trilogy starting with My Fault (2023) and its sequels.
Dramatic Shifts
Hazas also tackles grounded, dramatic work outside of pure romance. Her role in Dancing on Glass (2022) showcased her versatility in navigating tense, character-driven narratives alongside a talented ensemble. She doesn't shy away from complex supporting parts that challenge her usual bright persona.
Behind the Scenes and Non-Fiction Work
Beyond scripted acting, Hazas carved out a significant space in Spanish non-fiction television and hosting.
- El Hormiguero: From 2014 onward, she served as a regular collaborator on Spain's most popular nightly talk show, performing quirky science experiments, prank segments, and lifestyle segments.
- Rutas bizarras: She co-hosted this cultural travel show, exploring quirky, lesser-known roadside attractions across Spain alongside Javier Veiga. It highlighted her natural comedic timing and genuine curiosity.
Common Mistakes When Exploring Her Work
If you're diving into Marta Hazas's filmography for the first time, viewers often make a few typical errors:
- Starting with minor guest spots: She appeared in single episodes of classic procedurals like Los hombres de Paco early in her career. Don't judge her range based on these brief cameos.
- Skipping her stage work: Hazas remains deeply committed to live theater. Missing plays like El caballero de Olmedo means missing her classical training.
- Confusing spin-offs: Make sure you watch the original Velvet before jumping straight into Velvet Colección, as character arcs build directly on past relationships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Marta Hazas's first major breakthrough role?
Her major breakthrough came with the mystery-thriller series El internado, where she played teacher Amelia Ugarte from 2007 to 2010.
Is Marta Hazas married?
Yes, she married actor, writer, and director Javier Veiga on October 1, 2016, at the Palacio de la Magdalena in Santander. They frequently collaborate on stage and screen projects.
Does Marta Hazas star in any streaming films?
She appears in the popular Prime Video romantic drama trilogy beginning with My Fault (Culpa mía), playing the role of Rafaella.
How many episodes of Velvet did she appear in?
She starred in 54 episodes of the main Velvet series, followed by a starring role across 21 episodes of the spin-off Velvet Colección.
