Veteran Mexican actress María Antonieta de las Nieves, globally recognized as La Chilindrina from El Chavo del 8, has broken her silence following a recent emergency hospitalization. The star, 78, discussed a severe health crisis and shared intimate details about her recovery and future plans. She granted an exclusive interview to journalist Matilde Obregón, joined by her daughter Verónica.
De las Nieves was hospitalized in late August after a series of performances in Peru. Her health complications stemmed from a dangerous drop in sodium levels, high stress, and an excessive daily medication regimen.
The actress revealed she was taking as many as 19 pills a day. Although prescribed by various doctors, she now attributes these medications to significantly harming her health.
Some of the prescribed drugs had neurological effects that impacted her memory. De las Nieves stated she remembers nothing from her time in Peru, including her arrival or interviews she conducted there.
During her health ordeal, she recounted a moment of profound distress looking in a mirror. "It’s not possible that it’s me… That is a corpse," she recalled thinking.
One of the medications caused involuntary mouth movements while she spoke. This side effect had become noticeable in her public appearances. She reported that her vocal expression is slowly returning to normal.
Initially, De las Nieves had declined other interview requests as she was still recovering and felt unwell discussing her recent health issues.
She also admitted to a lifelong habit of not drinking enough water, a point her daughter Verónica emphasized as needing correction.
In a surprising announcement, the actress declared that "La Chilindrina stayed in Peru." She indicated she would no longer perform the iconic character in circuses. She might consider appearances for commercials, promotional events, or interviews.
De las Nieves expressed regret about her lifelong dedication to work without rest. She noted a change in perspective since her health scare. "Now I know what it is to be in a house, in a bed, with my three dogs, watching my TV, and I am happy," she shared.
María Antonieta de las Nieves as ‘La Chilindrina’. Photo by Rodrigo Varela/Getty Images
De las Nieves also briefly addressed Roberto Gómez Fernández’s bioseries about his father, Roberto Gómez Bolaños (Chespirito). She only saw extracts but stated she disliked the production. She claimed the script contained many "vulgarities" and "bad words" that she and her castmates never used in their programs or personal lives. Despite her criticism, she praised Gómez Fernández as a director and producer, noting she had seen all of Chespirito’s children grow up.