Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem’s teen son makes acting debut in queer Netflix drama
“Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem’s 15-year-old son, Leo Encinas Cruz, has made his acting debut in La Bola Negra, a Spanish-language queer drama starring his mother and now streaming on Netflix. The tee…”
The teenager appears in a brief scene in the film, directed by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi, known collectively as Los Javis. Although his role is small and does not include any dialogue, his appearance marks his first known on-screen acting performance.
Cruz stars in the film as Nené Romero, a cupletista and dancer whose story forms part of the drama’s 1937 timeline. Leo appears in a separate ensemble scene as one of the young people featured in the film.
His name is included in the film’s credits, with viewers recently spotting the teenager in the production following its Netflix release. The film follows three generations of men whose lives are connected through desire, pain and love, with its story unfolding across 1932, 1937 and 2017.
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It explores queer identity, inherited shame and the impact of Spain’s history on generations of men. Alongside Cruz, the cast includes Spanish singer Guitarricadelafuente, Miguel Bernardeau, Carlos González, Milo Quifes, Lola Dueñas and Glenn Close.
Leo’s acting debut comes as his parents have continued to keep their family life largely private. Cruz and Bardem, who married in 2010, also have a 13-year-old daughter, Luna. The couple have previously spoken about wanting their children to decide for themselves whether they wish to pursue careers in the public eye.
Cruz said in a 2024 interview with Elle that the decision belonged to her children, adding that they could speak about it when they were ready. Leo has also reportedly participated in Toy Story 5, lending his voice to a character in the animated film, in which his mother was also involved.
It remains unclear whether his appearance in La Bola Negra marks the beginning of a professional acting career or simply an early experience in the film industry. The film premiered at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, where its directors received the Best Director award.
It has also been selected by Spain for consideration in the Best International Feature Film category at the 2027 Academy Awards.
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