We Speak Actors
The Inspiring Journey of Gala Botero: An Actress Reflects on Her Career and Future Projects
The path to success in the acting world is rarely linear, and for Gala Botero, it’s been a journey marked by passion, serendipity, and a deep connection to the stories that shape us all. From her early days in the Colombian independent film scene to her exploration of international opportunities, Gala has carved out a unique place for herself in the industry. With a wealth of diverse roles and a deep commitment to authenticity, her career continues to evolve in exciting ways.
In this interview, she opens up about her beginnings, what drives her, and the projects that have meant the most to her. She also offers a glimpse into what’s next, including her upcoming directorial debut and a range of exciting new roles.
How did your acting journey begin, and what inspired you to pursue it?
“I began my career in the Colombian independent film scene, starring in a raw and surreal story. For me, there was no other life that interested me more than telling narratives that truly make you feel something. What inspires me are people and their lives, and the threads that connect them. Since I was a child, I’ve been drawn to listening to the experiences of others and their ancestors—the turning points, the losses, and those moments of communion and synchronicity. That’s where my curiosity comes alive.
I’ve learned that inspiration isn’t something you chase; it’s something that comes from within, from living, observing, connecting with others, and following my heart.”
“The more we reflect on our own experiences, the more we can bring that truth to the screen.”
What prompted you to move abroad, and how has that decision influenced your career?
“I’ve always felt like a nomad, never really tied to one place. When I arrived in London, it just felt like the right moment, like I was exactly where I needed to be. I didn’t have clear expectations for my career, but the opportunity Joanna Hogg gave me in The Souvenir: Part II was a beautiful surprise. I’ve always admired her films, and the way she brings her vision to life with such freedom and intuition really inspired me. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to be part of projects I never could have imagined when I was a little girl in Bogotá dreaming of becoming an actress.”

Which of your projects to date are you most proud of, and what makes them stand out to you?
“I think Boiling Point was an amazing film to be part of. The energy of the film, set behind the scenes of a high-pressure restaurant, really captured the intensity of that world. Sophia, the dishwasher I played, is unpolished, real, and laughs at the absurdity of life, which resonated with audiences. I’m also proud of Brizna, a film that addresses the expropriation of sacred lands through a lens of magical realism. My character, Laura, journeys through a dreamlike world where releasing the past is the only way forward. It’s a powerful and emotional exploration, and I’m grateful to have been part of it.”
Who or what has been your biggest source of inspiration throughout your career?
“I’ve always been inspired by people—their stories, struggles, and resilience. Growing up, I was fascinated by the lives and choices of those around me, especially my own family. Directors like Wim Wenders, John Cassavetes, and Joanna Hogg inspire me because their films come from personal experience, embracing spontaneity and making the most of what the moment offers. Perfect Days by Wim Wenders moves me deeply, and Kôji Yakusho’s performance is stunning—it’s the kind of work I aspire to create.”
Are there any upcoming projects or roles you’re particularly excited about and can share with us?
“This year, I made my directorial debut with The Little One, a short film I wrote, co-directed with my husband Byron Broadbent, and starred in. Set after a disaster in Greenfield, the story explores motherhood through the eyes of a toddler. It follows a mother living in a similar block of flats, traveling in search of a better future. This project is very close to my heart and feels deeply personal.

Next year, I’m excited for the release of a comedy I’m part of, directed by John Jencks, set in Brighton. It’s a fun ensemble film about a quirky community in a shabby mansion, and working with John was such a great experience.
“I’m also looking forward to a Colombia-British co-production filming in Cartagena next year. It’s a project I’m really excited about, and I can’t wait to dive into it—especially because it all happens by the sea.”
As Gala Botero’s career continues to expand into new and exciting territory, her journey is a testament to the power of living authentically, taking chances, and embracing the unknown. Whether she’s on screen or behind the camera, she remains dedicated to creating meaningful work that resonates with audiences around the world
Featured photo credit: Dunja Opalko
We Speak Actors
Marvel Actor Sebastián Capitán Viveros (‘Capi’) Stars as Series Regular in ‘Fightland’
Sebastián Capitán Viveros, better known as ‘Capi,’ has quietly built an impressive international career, appearing in major productions including Marvel Studios’ ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home’ and ‘Eternals,’ alongside acclaimed series such as ‘Halo,’ ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth,’ and the thriller ‘9 Bodies in a Mexican Morgue.’ He now stars as series regular Lazaro in the action crime drama ‘Fightland,’ now streaming in the U.S. on STARZ, with a UK release on Sky Atlantic and NOW planned soon. Executive produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, the series marks another major milestone for one of the industry’s most exciting rising international talents.
Having grown up between Mexico, the United States and Switzerland before establishing himself in the UK after graduating from the prestigious Drama Centre London, Capi brings authenticity, emotional depth and remarkable versatility to every performance. In this exclusive interview, he reflects on his multicultural upbringing, working on blockbuster productions, landing the role he believes he was born to play, and why ‘Fightland’ represents the most exciting chapter of his career so far.
For readers discovering your work for the first time, could you tell us a little about your acting journey? Having grown up between Mexico, the USA and Switzerland before building your career in the UK, how has your multicultural background shaped you both personally and professionally?
The universe chose me to be an actor; there is nothing else that would sit right in my soul than living through the expression of my art. Growing up across different countries and learning several languages allowed me to see both the world and myself from different perspectives. Being away from my home country since I was five years old, theatre became my refuge. It gave me the freedom to discover who I truly was alongside my twin sister and soulmate, Ilse. We both found a sense of security on stage. My first acting coach, Judith Hall, taught me what it truly means to be a professional actor and helped me earn my place at Drama Centre London. That experience shaped me into the man I always dreamed—and knew—I was meant to become.

Throughout your career you’ve appeared in productions including ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home,’ ‘Eternals,’ ‘Halo,’ ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth,’ ‘9 Bodies in a Mexican Morgue’ and now ‘Fightland.’ Looking back, which projects are you most proud of to date, and why?
“I went from serving Malaysian food in Camden Town to standing on a boat with Tom Holland and Zendaya in Venice while filming a Marvel production.”
That was my very first screen role in ‘Spider-Man: Far From Home,’ and it completely changed my life. It connected me to my higher self and made me feel aligned with my destiny. ‘9 Bodies in a Mexican Morgue’ was another unforgettable milestone because it was my first leading role. Filming alongside one of my closest friends from Drama Centre while portraying a Mexican lieutenant inspired by my grandfather—who was an admiral in the Mexican Navy—was incredibly meaningful. But ‘Fightland’ is on another level. The filmmaking, the people, the experience… It was one of the most profound, joyful, and unforgettable experiences of my career.
In ‘Fightland,’ you play Lazaro, a series regular. What attracted you to the role, what can audiences expect from your character without giving too much away, and what was it like working alongside such a talented cast?
The moment I read the audition scenes, I knew I was born to play Lazaro. An actor’s responsibility is to tell the truth, and Lazaro is my truth—apart from the criminal side! He’s a Mexican raised in the United States, and I connected deeply with him. Audiences can expect violence, strength, emotional depth and plenty of authentic Mexican swagger. Working with such an exceptional cast was a gift. Great actors elevate one another, and every scene became an opportunity to feed off each other’s performances. The showrunners, Damione and Raphael, as well as directors Otto and Seb, created an environment where I learned and grew in ways I can’t fully describe.

Your role includes action and physically demanding scenes. How did you prepare for them, and what was the most rewarding or challenging part of bringing Lázaro to life?
The most challenging—and enjoyable—part was training with legendary stunt coordinator Will Mackay. We spent countless hours practising fight choreography, gun handling and knife work.
“Audiences should prepare for intense action that will genuinely keep them on the edge of their seats.”
For me, preparation comes down to repetition. You rehearse until everything becomes instinct. Then, once you’re on set, you let go of all that preparation and simply live truthfully in the moment.
Looking ahead, what excites you most about this next chapter of your career, and what do you hope audiences take away from your performance in ‘Fightland’?
What excites me most is seeing a future where I can continue doing what I love—telling stories through art. I hope ‘Fightland’ introduces audiences to my commitment as an actor and demonstrates my versatility. While I’m proud of my Latino heritage, I don’t want to be defined solely by it. I’m an artist, a human being, ready to play any role—to be vulnerable or strong, funny or serious—and I’m hungry for every life I get the chance to live through acting.
Featured photo credit: Courtesy of STARZ
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