Spanish cinema icon Javier Bardem became emotional on Friday night as he paid tribute to his wife, Penélope Cruz, while accepting the Donostia Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 San Sebastian Film Festival.
Bardem, known for his roles in *Dune: Part Two*, *No Country for Old Men*—which earned him an Academy Award—and *Skyfall*, as well as acclaimed Spanish films like *Huevos de Oro* and *El detective y la muerte*, received the honor from his siblings, Monica and Carlos Bardem. They delivered a heartfelt tribute to their brother during the opening night gala at the Kursaal Theater.
Bardem referenced his Silver Shell win for best actor 30 years ago, nearly to the day, in 1994. “It was the beginning of a great friendship with this beautiful film festival that has given so much to me personally and professionally,” the actor said.
“San Sebastian is a place where 30 years ago I won an award that I still don’t believe they gave it to me, and I’m here now receiving this one from my brother and sister who I love and admire.” He took the opportunity to pay tribute to his family: “They educated me at a moment my mother had to be working 24 hours a day. … If I’m alive physically, not only spiritually and emotionally, it was my brother and sister taking care of me, giving me their attention and love.”
He added, “I want to dedicate this award to four people: My mother, who is present, she’s here in the theater and she’s happy, I can feel that.”
But the biggest coos from the crowd were prompted when Bardem spoke candidly about his love for his wife, Cruz, whom he married in 2010: “And to a woman who I love and who I’ve shared a life with, I want to thank and give my deep gratitude for the human being you are and how you can be responsible for life, the life of your children, the life of your family, your mother, your friends, the life of others, the many people that you don’t know that you suffer for and you take care of and undoubtedly the life of this gentleman who’s here, who loves you and thanks you very much for it.” He swiftly thanked their two children, Leo and Luna.
Cruz smiled at her husband while he blew kisses in the direction of her seat. The power couple arrived hand-in-hand on the red carpet for the event.
Bardem wrapped up his speech by thanking the film festival and exiting the stage to raucous applause Friday evening. He was meant to pick the award up last year but was forced to delay due to the SAG-AFTRA actors strike.
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