The Madrid actress, who played Julia in the iconic series filmed in Nerja, has just premiered the play 'Electra Jonda' and has had a street named after her in the Málaga municipality since 2001.
María Garralón, the actress who brought Julia to life in the iconic series 'Verano Azul', is still going strong. At 73 years old, she has just premiered the play 'Electra Jonda' under the direction of Manuel Canseco, proving that her passion for acting has no expiry date. The actress, who has accumulated over 35 television series, 30 films and 25 plays, remains a reference in the Spanish theatre scene.
From Nerja to national success
Garralón, born in Madrid in 1953, began her career under the guidance of Antonio Mercero, director of 'Verano Azul', with the short film 'Los pajaritos'. But it was her role as Julia in the series filmed in Nerja that catapulted her to fame. The story of that painter woman who lost her family and found solace in friendship with Chanquete and the young holidaymakers marked an entire generation.
Since then, her career has been unstoppable. On television, she has participated in historic series such as 'Farmacia de Guardia', 'Menudo es mi padre' and 'Compañeros'. In film, she has worked on titles like 'La voz dormida' or 'La espina de Dios'. And in theatre, she has toured Spain with plays like 'Trampa Mortal' or 'Háblame'.
A very special honour on the Costa del Sol
But if there is one detail that ties her indelibly to the province of Málaga, it is her street in Nerja. Since 2001, a street parallel to the Antonio Mercero promenade has borne her name. A recognition that the actress proudly showcases on her website and that makes Nerja a must-visit destination for fans of the series.
The Axarquía town, which receives thousands of tourists every summer seeking the locations of 'Verano Azul', keeps the memory of the series alive with routes and tributes. Chanquete's boat, Burriana beach, or the cave where the characters took refuge are essential stops for the nostalgic.
A legacy that continues to grow
With nearly 100 projects under her belt, Garralón demonstrates that talent and perseverance are key. Her latest premiere, 'Electra Jonda', has been running for just ten days and is already receiving good reviews. The play, which blends classical tragedy with flamenco, is yet another showcase of her versatility.
For the people of Málaga, seeing María Garralón active is a source of pride. Her connection to Nerja and the series that immortalised the town remains a tourist and cultural attraction. Who knows, with a bit of luck, the actress might drop by the Costa del Sol to present her new play or simply to stroll down that street named after her and remember the blue summers that changed her life.

