Ivana Baquero

Acting Debut and Early Roles

Baquero began acting at the age of eight, appearing in small roles in several Spanish-language films such as Fragile (2005), Romasanta (2004), and Rottweiler (2004). These early projects helped pave the way for her breakthrough performance and demonstrated her talent from a young age.

Breakthrough with Pan’s Labyrinth

Ivana Baquero earned international recognition when she was cast as Ofelia in Guillermo del Toro's fantasy drama Pan’s Labyrinth (2006). Chosen from more than 1,000 young actresses, Baquero’s performance received widespread acclaim. The film premiered at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival and was released in the United States on January 19, 2007.

Pan’s Labyrinth went on to become a major critical success, winning multiple prestigious accolades including three Academy Awards, three BAFTA Awards, the Saturn Award for Best International Film, and the Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation, Long Form. Baquero herself was honored with the Saturn Award for Best Performance by a Younger Actor for her compelling portrayal of Ofelia.

Further Film Roles

Following the success of Pan’s Labyrinth, Baquero took on the lead role in the 2009 horror film The New Daughter, directed by Luis Berdejo and based on a story by John Connolly. She starred opposite Kevin Costner, portraying his daughter in a suspenseful tale marked by supernatural elements.

The Shannara Chronicles and International Recognition

In 2015, Baquero expanded her international presence by being cast as Eretria in the MTV fantasy television series The Shannara Chronicles, which premiered in January 2016. The show, based on the best-selling Shannara novels by Terry Brooks, introduced her to a global television audience. Her portrayal of Eretria, a resourceful and dynamic character, earned her a new generation of fans and further solidified her place in genre television.