Pilar Bardem was a popular Spanish actress. She was also the mother of Oscar-winning actor Javier Bardem. Pilar acted in films, television, and theater for several decades. She was also famous for defending others.
Quick Facts About Pilar Bardem
| Full Name | María del Pilar Bardem Muñoz |
| Birthdate | March 14, 1939 |
| Occupation | Actress, Activist |
| Husband/Wife | José Carlos Encinas Doussinague (separated) |
| Education | Studied acting in Madrid |
| Died
Age |
17 July 2021
82 (at the time of death) |
| Parents | Rafael Bardem (father), Matilde Muñoz Sampedro (mother) |
| Siblings | Juan Antonio Bardem (brother) |
| Children | Carlos Bardem, Mónica Bardem, Javier Bardem, 1 died in infancy |
| Net Worth | Estimated $3 million (at the time of death) |
Early Life and Family
Pilar Bardem was born on March 14, 1939, in Seville, Spain. She had actors galore in her family. Her father, Rafael Bardem, and her mother, Matilde Muñoz Sampedro, were actors. Her brother, Juan Antonio Bardem, became a prominent film director.
Pilar was raised amidst art. She knew that acting was her life since she was young.
Marriage and Children
Pilar married José Carlos Encinas Doussinague. They had four children, including Carlos, Mónica, and Javier Bardem. Pilar raised them mostly on her own after separating from her husband.
All three children became actors. Javier became the most famous of them. Pilar was proud of him, and he often said she was a big reason he became an actor.
Acting Career
Pilar began performing in the 1960s. Her initial movie was El Mundo Sigue in 1965. She performed in numerous Spanish films and television programs.
One of her most famous performances was in the film Nobody Will Speak of Us When We’re Dead (Spanish title: Nadie hablará de nosotras cuando hayamos muerto). She received a Goya Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1995 for it.
She also featured in successful television shows such as Amar en tiempos revueltos, El Inquilino, and Hermanas. Pilar performed on stage as well.
Her last film was released in 2015. Even towards the end of her life, she remained occupied in acting.
A Strong Voice for Others
Pilar was more than an actress. She was also an activist. She criticized unjust treatment in the movie industry. She demanded improved working conditions for actors. Pilar also opposed war. In 2003, she protested against the Iraq War in Spain’s parliament. She wore a shirt that read “No to war” and was requested to leave.
Humans admired her for being courageous and truthful. She was referred to by many as a justice fighter.
A Devoted Mother and Grandmother
Pilar had a close relationship with her children. She stood by them during life and in their professions. Her son, Javier Bardem, received an Oscar award in 2008. He dedicated it to Pilar and thanked her for her courage and inspiration.
Javier wed actress Penélope Cruz in 2010. Pilar and Penélope had a very close relationship. Javier and Penélope have two children together:
- Leo Bardem – born in January 2011
- Luna Bardem – born in July 2013
Pilar enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren.
Her Last Days
Pilar Bardem died on July 17, 2021, in Madrid. She was 82 years old. She died due to a lung disease, but it was not caused by COVID-19.
Her kids gave a tender message after she died. They stated:
“Our mother, our example, our fighter, has left us in peace and without pain.”
READ ALSO: Javier Bardem Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Her Legacy
Pilar Bardem did not leave behind films and accolades alone. She also left behind a talented family full of love. She did what was right. She assisted others in words and actions.
She is remembered in Spain as a great actress and a courageous woman. Her son, Javier Bardem, continues to carry her spirit on every stage and screen.
Pilar’s is a tale of strength, love, and mission. She will never be forgotten.
