“Today a younger generation deserves to come to the forefront, (a generation) with energy, ready to deal decisively with the changes and reforms required by the current situation” said Juan Carlos when he announced at Spanish people his decision to abdicate.
What is the new generation that deserves to come to the forefront? But of course, his son, Felipe, and his wife, the charming Letizia who will become the new queen of Spain.
However, what seems to concern most the international media, even more than the reasons that led Juan Carlos to abdicate, is Letizia Ortiz Rocasolano, which charms everyone with its style, her striking appearance and her low profile.
Born in September 1972, granddaughter of a taxi driver and daughter of a journalist and a nurse, Letizia became popular in Spain through her presence on TV.
Furthermore, after studying Journalism at the University of Madrid, she worked in the newspaper La Nueva España and ABC, but her popularity rose when she presented the news on the state television TVE.
She met Felipe in November 2002 when she covered the worst environmental disaster in the history of Spain, after the sinking of Prestige ship.
Their marriage took place in May 2004 despite the disagreements of the palace, not only because of … her humble origin, but mainly because Letizia was divorced.
However, Felipe is said to have threatened his parents saying that if he did not marry Letizia, he would say “no” to the throne.
Letizia became the favourite princess of the magazines that captured her for her incomparable style, even though there were some reports commenting her cold and distant attitude.
However, Letizia was probably trying to balance between her new life and her old habits such as dressing simply and economically and going for a drink to the bars of Madrid.
She struggled to leave behind such habits and embrace the new ones that required an even lower profile and rules imposed by a strict protocol.
Surprisingly, despite her best efforts people loved her after a tragic family incident.
In February 2007, her sister, Erica, was found dead of pills overdose in her apartment. The death of her younger sister shocked her so much and burst into tears in front of journalists when she was asked to make statements after the memorial service.
“I would like to thank all of those who sympathize with me about the death of my little sister” Letizia said devastated while holding Felipe’s arm.
Those tears showed her human face and therefore, Letizia, according to media, won the sympathy of Spanish people, who saw a common woman who had just the chance to become a new … Cinderella .
