JUAN PERALES is one of the rising faces of Spanish television, making his mark with a breakout role in Olympo, a bold series that blends sports drama with an intimate exploration of identity, masculinity, and desire. Before stepping into acting, Perales built a career as a model and influencer, collaborating with major fashion brands. His transition to the screen has been driven by curiosity, discipline, and fascination with complex characters. In Olympo, he plays Sebas, a young rugby player whose personal journey has resonated deeply with audiences – particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. With a growing fan base and an expanding list of projects, Perales is destined to become a prominent voice in the new generation of Spanish actors.
Left Full look Gucci, necklace Cartier
Right Full look Dsquared2, necklace and watch Cartier
Your character in Olympo has been praised for his emotional depth. What was the most challenging and the most rewarding part of playing him?
The hardest part was preparing for Sebas’ emotional complexity. He begins closed off, not fully aware of his feelings, so I worked on showing how he opens up in a believable way. The most beautiful part was living through that journey with him – he finds freedom without losing himself.
How did you mentally prepare for your character’s inner conflict, especially in a story about sexuality, power, and vulnerability?
I observed, researched, and listened to stories – both personal and public – adding them to what the series tells us about Sebas’ life in sports, rugby, and his relationships. I had to stay in his skin to understand his actions, even when he doesn’t.
Full look Loewe, bracelets and watch Cartier
Was there a scene in Olympo that left a lasting impact on you?
Two. In a match against Italy, Sebas flees to the locker room, Roque follows, they share a hug and almost a kiss – intense and delicate, where silence says everything. In episode seven, a trailer reveals their relationship, shocking everyone and ending in a fight that was hard to film and still moves me.
You’ve mentioned your interest in portraying dark or psychologically intense characters. What draws you to them?
They push you to go deeper, to understand actions that are hard to empathise with, and to show them without judgment.
You started with sharing fashion, fitness, and lifestyle content. How do you balance that now with acting?
I share what I like, just more professionally now. I even feel more comfortable showing personal things because I’m at ease with myself.
Left Full look Givenchy, bracelet Cartier
Right Coat Acromatyx, pants The Frankie Shop, boots Dsquared2
How do you handle the pressure for a perfect image on social media?
I don’t pretend perfection. If I’m having a bad time, I keep it private. I share what I want, as I live it.
What are your thoughts on the modern relationship between masculinity and fashion?
I like it – people feel freer to dress as they want. For young men, it’s positive because it helps them express themselves early on.
Has social media given you more freedom or pressure?
Freedom. It’s helped me try new things, learn, lose my shyness. And it led me to acting.
Left Full look Dsquared2, necklace and watch Cartier
Right Full look Givenchy
Without a traditional acting school background, what’s been your approach to training?
I started learning on my own, then took specialised courses. Acting is constant work—building technique, adapting to each project, and keeping vulnerability alive.
Any personal rituals before a shoot?
I isolate myself a bit, listen to music, wake up early, go to the gym, have a coffee – my routine to show up with energy.
If you had complete freedom to create a character, what would they be like?
I’m drawn to post-apocalyptic worlds—dangerous yet with space for love or friendship. I like contrasts between toughness and vulnerability. I’d also add a modern Western vibe: vast landscapes, solitude, unspoken tension.
Left
Right Full look Zadig&Voltaire
How do you take care of your emotional well-being in a high-pressure industry?
By remembering why I started. Keeping my goals in mind helps me focus and not get distracted.
What have you learned about yourself through your characters?
That everyone has a backstory. It’s made me more empathetic – in acting and in life.
How has feedback from the LGBTQ+ community affected you?
It surprised me. I received touching messages from people who connected with Sebas’ story. It’s amazing to see a series resonate so deeply.
What’s something you don’t usually share about yourself?
I practice and follow boxing, I love drawing, and I’m terrified of spiders.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
That people feel they can be themselves. If my work inspires that, it’s the best gift.
…
Interview by Juan Marti
Photography by Antartica Studio
Fashion by Jon Mikel Del Valle
Production by Juan Marti
Grooming by Eugenio Garcia Ramirez
Stylist’s assistant Arane Oyeregui Fontao
Production assistant Nena Petkovska
