If you’re a fan of hospital drama series, you’ve likely noticed “Breathless,” the new show on the topic that’s making waves on Netflix just hours after its global release.
Building on the success of beloved titles like “Grey’s Anatomy” and “ER,” this latest addition offers a fresh perspective, set in Spain, and sparks discussions about the country’s healthcare system.
Created by Carlos Montero, known for helming “Elite,” “Breathless” has been praised for its authentic portrayal of the lives of healthcare professionals in this part of the world. That has led many to wonder: is the title based on a true story?
All on the inspiration behind ‘Breathless’
“Breathless” is set in a public hospital hanging on the brink of crisis due to the dire conditions faced by its staff, including low wages, inadequate equipment for serious health issues, and the heartbreaking reality of watching lives slip away without the necessary resources.
The situation takes a dramatic turn when a politician named Patricia Segura requires medical attention, prompting the hospital staff to go on strike, risking severe consequences. While this specific scenario is fictional, it reflects real issues within Spain’s public healthcare system.
As the show highlights, Spain offers both public and private healthcare, with the public system being one of the best in Europe. However, it faces significant challenges that need urgent attention to ensure it remains accessible to those who cannot afford an expensive treatment. “Breathless” boldly addresses these issues, advocating for real-life solutions.
In an interview with Vogue, Alfonso Bassave, who plays one of the doctors in the production, described his preparation for the role: “Working with a neighbor who is a doctor, I encountered the real issues highlighted by this production: our public healthcare system, which we must protect or it could be at risk,” says Bassave. “It’s one of the main themes of the series, and certainly something the audience will empathize with and debate.”
On the other hand, director Carlos Montero mentioned that the character of politician Patricia Segura, portrayed by Najwa Nimri, was inspired by various populist female politicians, but not any one individual specifically. While the team drew on real figures when developing her plot, they were careful not to include any specific traits that might lead to controversy.
Overall, according to both the cast and the director, “Breathless” is based on broader issues affecting the Spanish healthcare system rather than any particular real-life story involving the characters depicted in the series.
