Rosa Rodríguez and Manuel Pascual have taken things a step further during their time on Pasapalabra. After six intense months on the show, both contestants have revealed for the first time the real reason that led them to participate. They did so in an interview in which they disclosed unexpected details that have surprised both fans and the show's producers.
Since they began their journey on the popular Antena 3 program, they have become two essential faces for the audience. Manu, with 255 episodes aired, and Rosa, with 130, have shown that their presence is no coincidence. Both compete every afternoon for a jackpot that already exceeds €1,600,000, but the reason that pushed them to do so had nothing to do with money.
Manu has confessed that he auditioned after a very difficult personal situation. He went through a period of anxiety after finishing his degree in Psychology and needed a challenge to regain motivation. Meanwhile, Rosa says that the show was her "escape route" after the loss of a family member, and that facing the Rosco every day helps her channel her emotions.
Their confession has humanized their participation and has caused a wave of reactions on social media. Many viewers have shared messages of admiration for the way they have overcome their personal circumstances. The story behind their arrival on the show has even moved some members of the show's team.
The unknown side of "Pasapalabra"
Throughout these months, Rosa and Manu have shown themselves to be two tireless contestants, with constant preparation and an exemplary attitude. Their daily rivalry hasn't prevented a deep respect and sincere camaraderie from developing between them. "We compete fiercely, but when the show ends, we're almost like family," Rosa says.
Their dedication has made Pasapalabra experience one of its most successful periods in terms of viewership. The expectation of seeing who will win the millionaire jackpot has turned every afternoon into a must-see event for millions of viewers. The producers of the format acknowledge that the chemistry between Rosa and Manu has been key to this phenomenon.
Both contestants have also spoken about how their lives have changed since joining the show. Rosa, who is a teacher, has had to completely reorganize her routine to balance her job with preparing for the Rosco. Meanwhile, Manu has temporarily left his professional activity to focus exclusively on the show.
Both follow a strict schedule of study and mental training. They spend hours memorizing definitions, rare words, and reviewing general knowledge content. Despite the effort involved, they say they greatly enjoy the process and that each correct answer on set gives them a satisfaction that's hard to describe.
One of the most curious moments they've revealed was how the call that changed their lives happened. Rosa received the news that she had been selected for the show as she was leaving class, and she broke down in tears in the middle of the street. Manu, on the other hand, found out while studying for civil service exams, and he put his notes aside to focus on this new opportunity.
The dream Rosa has
Both agree that Pasapalabra has restored a sense of excitement they thought was lost. Beyond the financial prize, they say that the learning and experience are worth more than any amount. "We've grown as people, not just as contestants," Manu explains with emotion.
If either of them were to win the jackpot, they know exactly how they'd invest it. Rosa would help her family, travel, and dedicate time to social causes related to education. Meanwhile, Manu states that his dream is to set up a psychological center specializing in anxiety disorders and mental health for young people.
Their future projects reflect their commitment to life beyond the set. Although they know their time on the show may be reaching its decisive phase, they don't obsess over victory. For them, what's important is to make the most of each episode as an opportunity to improve and share with the audience a passion for knowledge.
From Antena 3, a special program is already being prepared to pay tribute to their journey. It will be a look back at the most intense, entertaining, and moving moments they've starred in during their time on Pasapalabra. A well-deserved recognition for two contestants who have made history on the show without yet needing to win the grand jackpot.