For the first time since Melanie Griffith filed for divorce in June of last year, Antonio Banderas is now speaking about the most intense year of his life. While promoting his upcoming film Autómata , which also stars Griffith, the 54-year-old actor opened up about his true feelings.
“Life goes on,” he said during his interview on El Hormiguero , a Spanish talk show.
“I admire and respect Melanie first and foremost as a great actress. I have always said that.”
The actor stars alongside his soon-to-be ex-wife in the film, stating that her immense talent was the main reason why she was chosen for the part.
“And she’s also the person that I loved, that I love, and will always love,” the actor continued.
The host then told Banderas that he’s a lucky man to have fallen in love again, confirming rumors about Banderas rendezvousing all over the globe with Dutch investment consultant Nicole Kimpel, who is 20 years younger than her.
“I hope you are happy and Melanie, too,” the host said, to which Banderas replied, “Thank you very much.”
Relationship alert! Meet Antonio Banderas’ new girlfriend: http://t.co/CT9CgX0qMm pic.twitter.com/EOMrj2ltWx
— Latina Magazine (@Latina) December 26, 2014
Banderas recently told the Olive Press that he prefers to take things slow in relation to his budding romance with Kimpel. He said that they’re still in the process of getting to know each other, and that his newest leading lady is shy.
People were stunned last year when Banderas and Melanie Griffith released a joint statement that pointed out the reason they decided to end their decade-spanning union.
“We have thoughtfully and consensually decided to finalize our almost 20 years marriage in a loving and friendly manner honoring and respecting each other, our family and friends and the beautiful time we have spent together.”
Banderas met Melanie Griffith while shooting Two Much, prompting him to divorce his first wife, Ana Leza. The star couple married back in 1996 in a private ceremony in London. The two have a daughter, Stella Dominguez, along with Griffith’s son from her previous marriage to actor Steven Bauer.
While Banderas continues to make movies, Griffith is hitting the Broadway stage this month for the re-staging of Pippin . She spoke candidly about the divorce during an interview with Indiewire .
“It’s not about my career now. It’s just about finding great work and having a good time. My kids are almost grown. I’m getting divorced. I’m just happy,” the Crazy in Alabama star said.
[Image via YouTube ]
