In an enchanting display of familial affection, acclaimed actor Antonio Banderas, 67, recently took to Instagram to share an endearing image of him and Melanie Griffith’s daughter, Stella del Carmen Banderas, 27, which sparked a wave of adoration among fans.The picture—taken in the scenic locale of Málaga, Spain—showcases the father-daughter duo in a loving embrace, against the backdrop of La Esperanza, a symbol of their Spanish heritage and familial roots.
Accompanying the special photo is a caption that reads: “Anoche, en Málaga, con mi hija Stella del Carmen, y La Esperanza al fondo. Last night, in Malaga, with my daughter Stella del Carmen, and La Esperanza in the back. @stellabanderasgriffith #SemanaSanta #Malaga #Spain #aboutlastnight #easter #SemanaSantaMlg”
Antonio and Stella Banderas at the 69th San Sebastian Film Festival in San Sebastian, Spain on September 17, 2021 | Source: Getty Images
Social media platforms buzzed with admiration and praise for the snapshot. “She’s beautiful ❤️❤️,” gushed one fan, while another expressed, “She’s just as adorable as her dad, I hope you have a great time. ❤️❤️.”
One person deemed Antonio “a proud father,” and another noted the resemblance between the dad and daughter, citing, “She looks like your little sister ❤️.” Of both of them, another fan swooned, “🤍🤍🤍😍😍😍❌⭕🥰Two of the most beautiful people on the planet 💋🤍.”
Interacting with the Spanish press at the event, Stella revealed her growing bilingualism while jokingly admitting that she speaks “Spanglish” and needs to improve upon her Spanish.
Stella Banderas at the “RABAT Magic Cosmos” photocall in Madrid, Spain on October 25, 2023 | Source: Getty Images
Her candid revelations about her linguistic dynamics with her father—during which she admitted to him not speaking much Spanish with her as a child—highlighted the natural blending of cultures within their family, with English taking precedence due to them primarily residing in the United States.
Griffith and Banderas, who separated in 2015 after nearly two decades of marriage, continue to showcase a commendable example of post-divorce friendship. Banderas shared that Griffith is his best friend and an integral part of his family.
Antonio Banderas and Melanie Griffith at the 55th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France on May 1, 2002 | Source: Getty Images
He lauded her dedication to providing for their children, including Stella Banderas and Johnson, with a stable and normal upbringing.
Dakota Johnson and Stella Banderas at the Viktor&Rolf show as part of Paris Fashion Week in Paris, France on July 3, 2013 | Source: Getty Images
Social media users have celebrated Griffith and Banderas’s ability to maintain a warm relationship after their divorce. While Banderas now resides in London with his girlfriend Nicole Kimpel, and Griffith is based in Los Angeles, the bond they have cultivated over the years endures. The legacy of their time together lives on through their continued family gatherings and shared love for their children.