Here’s Why Pablo Alborán Joining Manu Rios Means “Breathless” Season 2 Will Leave You Gasping
Netflix brings double the charm to the popular Spanish medical drama as a beloved singer makes his acting debut
Netflix has found the perfect way to elevate fan excitement for the second season of Spanish medical drama Breathless (known as Respira in Spain). Popular singer Pablo Alborán will join heartthrob Manu Ríos when the series returns, bringing fresh talent to the hospital halls.
The streaming giant confirmed this casting coup last December, showing Alborán in full medical attire. The 35-year-old Spanish music sensation will make his acting debut in the series, playing an emergency room plastic surgeon at the fictional Joaquín Sorolla public hospital.
For those unfamiliar with the first season, Breathless became a breakout hit last year with Elite star Manu Ríos leading the Grey’s Anatomy-style medical drama. The addition of Alborán suggests the new season will offer even more compelling storylines when it returns.
From Concert Stage to Hospital Set
Alborán brings impressive credentials to his first acting role. With six studio albums, seven Grammy nominations, and 28 Latin Grammy nominations, the Solamente Tu singer has already conquered the music world.
In a recent interview with Billboard, Alborán shared his initial hesitation about taking on acting. “Acting has always intrigued me, but I had never taken the leap,” he explained. “When I was offered the role, my family couldn’t believe it. ‘Are you sure?’ they asked. I was asking myself the same thing.”
The transition from music to acting required serious preparation. Alborán took acting classes and even shadowed real doctors during surgeries to better understand his character.
“It was intense, but it also helped me a lot on a personal level,” he told Billboard. “I had just gone through a very difficult situation with a family member’s health, and being surrounded by doctors allowed me to see things from a different perspective. It all came together to bring more authenticity to the character.”
Behind the Scenes Connections
Fans received a thrilling glimpse of the new season when Alborán shared behind-the-scenes photos after production wrapped. The images included a particularly striking photo with Ríos that sent social media into a frenzy.
Muita beleza! Manu Rios e Pablo Alborán nos bastidores da 2ª temporada de #Respira ✨ pic.twitter.com/M8RuaS3xTS
— Respira Netflix (@respiranetflix) April 9, 2025
Additional photos showed Alborán with castmates Xoán Fórneas, Aitana Sánchez-Gijón, Najwa Nimri, Alfonso Bassave, Borja Luna, and Blanca Suarez. His caption simply read: “Thank you ❤️ #Breathe2”
The singer later expressed his feelings about finishing production in an emotional post. “I am very sad that filming is over, but I will take away unforgettable moments in my heart,” he wrote. “THANK YOU from the bottom of my soul!!!!!”
What’s Next for Alborán?
While viewers wait for Breathless Season 2, Alborán hasn’t put his music career on pause. Two weeks ago, he released Clickbait, the first single from his upcoming album scheduled for November release. He’s also planning a world tour for 2026.
Netflix has not yet announced when Season 2 of Breathless will premiere. We’re watching closely for updates on this exciting new chapter that promises to bring fresh dynamics to the popular series.
Have you watched the first season of Breathless? The addition of Pablo Alborán alongside Manu Ríos gives fans plenty of reasons to look forward to the show’s return.
