María Eugenia Arboleda: beyond Mariana in "I am Betty, the ugly"

The Colombian actress María Eugenia Arboleda, known for her role as Mariana in the iconic telenovela "Yo soy Betty, la fea", is currently experiencing an unusual moment in her life. Despite enjoying her stay in Miami, welcoming friends, and planning yacht outings, her professional life remains active. In the midst of this scenario, Arboleda agrees to an unexpected interview before heading to the gym, revealing relevant aspects of her career and personal life. With a career that has transcended borders, María Eugenia Arboleda has participated in Latin productions and Hollywood, standing out in films such as "Love in the Time of Cholera", alongside Javier Bardem, and in the Netflix series "Siempre Bruja". Additionally, she has ventured into academia as a professor of Performing Arts at a university in Georgia, showcasing her artistic versatility and commitment to education. The nostalgia for her role in "Yo soy Betty, la fea" is present in Arboleda's life, as she reflects on the impact that her character of Mariana could have had as an iconic representative of the Afro community worldwide, had it been developed more deeply in the plot. Despite the limitations in Afro representation in the telenovela, Arboleda emphasizes the importance of visibility for black women in history and in the media. The news about the new series of "Betty, la fea", which will premiere on July 19, 2024, brings with it the absence of María Eugenia Arboleda in the main cast. Although she was not initially called to participate in the production, the actress reveals that there is a possibility of her return in future seasons, generating speculation and expectations among her followers. The inclusion of an Afro character, played by Valentina Lagarejo, in the new series of "Betty, la fea", is seen by Arboleda as an attempt at representation, although she regrets not being considered to reprise her role as Mariana. Despite this situation, the actress maintains a positive attitude and is grateful for the opportunities that have arisen in her career, trusting that new proposals will come in the future. María Eugenia Arboleda, an Afro-descendant woman committed to the visibility and empowerment of her community, stands out not only for her acting talent but also for her work as an activist. Her professional trajectory and her dedication as a full-time mother have made her an example of strength and determination for many people, inspiring through her work and activism. Despite the ups and downs in her career and the casting decisions in the entertainment industry, María Eugenia Arboleda remains firm in her conviction to continue growing and exploring new opportunities in her field. With a reflective and optimistic perspective, the actress faces challenges with determination and gratitude, keeping alive her passion for acting and her commitment to her community and her legacy as an artist.