Pepón Nieto: "Being difficult is in fashion. Before, being antifascist was normal, and today you are called antisystem"
Pepón Nieto reflects on the changing dynamics of societal values regarding artists and politics in Spain.
In a recent interview, Spanish actor Pepón Nieto discusses the evolving perceptions of societal values in Spain, contrasting his experiences with the current trends in the artistic community. He humorously comments on his youthful appearance and candidly addresses the pressures artists feel in the modern landscape. Nieto expresses a desire for Spanish politicians to show more appreciation for theatre, akin to that for football, highlighting a cultural shift in Spain's entertainment hierarchy.
Nieto also talks about his latest theatrical work and the film 'Castigo divino,' emphasizing the message that everyone has the potential to be a good person despite ongoing societal challenges. His reflections resonate with a critical view of how cultural and political landscapes in Spain influence artistic expression and societal expectations. He emphasizes the changing nature of activism, pointing out that once being antifascist was commonplace, while now it seems to attract labels such as 'antisystem,' illustrating a shift in public perception of dissent and expression.
This commentary not only sheds light on Nieto's personal career journey but also reflects broader social commentary about the interplay of politics, art, and community in Spain today. His insights provoke thought about how artists navigate their roles in society amid changing values, and they call into question the lack of admiration for theatre compared to more popular sports, which may point towards a deeper cultural disconnect that deserves further examination given Spain's rich history in the arts.