RTVE is set to debut its first original fiction series of the year this Sunday, replacing its long-running Sunday movie slot with the premiere of Barrio Esperanza. The fresh comedy, starring Mariona Terés, will air at 10:00 p.m. On La 1 on April 19, 2026.
The decision to pull La película de la semana from the schedule marks a notable shift for the public broadcaster, which had recently found success airing classic films on Sunday nights — including recent broadcasts of Indiana Jones and Mission: Impossible that outperformed rival reality shows like Supervivientes: Conexión Honduras. Despite those strong ratings, RTVE announced the change as part of a special evening dedicated to public education and traditional Spanish neighborhoods.
Barrio Esperanza follows Esperanza, a woman who dreamed of becoming a teacher since childhood but saw her path derailed after attempting to smuggle four kilos of drugs through an airport. After serving time in prison, she earned a teaching degree behind bars, passed the public school certification exam, and returns to her former school — the CEIP Barrio Esperanza — determined to produce a difference.
Upon her release, she faces skepticism from colleagues and opposition from the school’s parent association, which has begun gathering signatures to have her transferred. Yet her focus remains on the students: helping the “little Esperanzas” who run and play in the schoolyard, many of whom speak ten different languages, find their own way forward.
The series premiere will be followed by the launch of España de barrio, a new documentary-style format beginning with an episode devoted to the Carabanchel district. It remains unclear whether Barrio Esperanza will secure a permanent spot in the Sunday lineup or if this placement is strictly a launch strategy.
Mariona Terés leads the cast in what RTVE describes as a story about second chances, redemption, and the enduring belief that life can offer a fresh start — especially when someone is willing to fight for it.
