Queen Letizia, a woman often described in superlatives, is considered by many to be a superwoman. The wife of the Spanish king, mother of the heir to the throne, a style icon who dictates fashion trends, she is beautiful, poised, humble, and actively involved in all events. However, there were times when the Spanish public did not want her beside Felipe.
Foto:MANUEL MARTIN / AFP / Profimedia
Before stepping into the palace and becoming Queen Letizia, Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano pursued a career in journalism, continuing the family tradition. She worked for television channels, including Spanish national television, reporting on the most important events of our time, unaware that one day her life would take a turn—she would find herself on the other side of the camera and become the main topic of the media.
It has been noted that during her journalism career, she made unflattering remarks about the monarchy at a debate, which staunch supporters of the monarchy have not forgiven her to this day. Additionally, when Letizia and Felipe announced their engagement in 2003, conservatives immediately opposed the marriage because not only did she lack royal blood, but she was also previously married.
Foto:MANUEL MARTIN / AFP / Profimedia
Student and Teacher
Of course, the beautiful queen had a life before meeting her current husband. At the age of 17, she fell in love with her ten-years-older professor, Alonso Guerrero Pérez. A student and a teacher—this was a forbidden love, especially with the age difference…
They did not heed the prejudices. They spent a whole decade together before deciding to legalize their relationship. They took that step in 1998 with a modest civil wedding. However, it lasted only until the following year. After that, Letizia met her prince at a colleague’s dinner, and the palace, which she had previously visited for work, became her home.
Foto:Twitter
Although King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofía were bothered by the fact that Letizia had a previous marriage, their son was not deterred. He was determined to fight for his love, and he succeeded.
Foto:MANUEL MARTIN / AFP / Profimedia
Alonso Guerrero Pérez, now 62 years old, is a prominent and award-winning writer and professor, author of numerous essays, literary critiques, and newspaper articles. He has also written a novel. He has never made any statements about his former love, nor has he given interviews, although his name is invariably accompanied by the label “ex-husband of the Spanish queen” in the media.
Foto:MANUEL MARTIN / AFP / Profimedia
He has also found happiness with another person. After Letizia, he married a friend from high school, María Dolores Corral, and, as far as is known, their marriage is still ongoing.