Content powerhouse Banijay Entertainment announces Benita, a powerful documentary from Zeppelin, a Banijay Iberia label, in collaboration with Spanish public broadcaster RTVE. The new series follows the deeply personal and inspiring story of one of Spain’s most cherished personalities, who, at age 61, embarks on the most important journey of her life, her gender transition.
The documentary offers a first-hand look at Benita’s journey. Beginning with her emotional public announcement a year ago on Zeppelin’s hit talent show, Baila Como Puedas (Dance If You Can), the documentary re-lives her decision to begin the process of gender transition. Throughout, the series embodies her first declaration: “I have decided to make the transition and truly be who I am. It is something very considered, very heartfelt. I carry within me, in my soul, a woman. It’s what I feel and it’s who I am. I will be called Benita, like my mother.”
Benita will chronicle her life from childhood to present day, offering viewers a rare human portrait behind the public persona. More than a story of gender transition, the series delivers an honest and moving testimony, shedding light on the person who, through years of dedication and talent, is admired by many.
Miguel Martín, Managing Director of Zeppelin says: “It’s a privilege for us to tell Benita’s life story in such depth, and a great responsibility to accompany her in this process. Benita is a role model to many, proving that it’s never too late to live your truth.”
James Townley, Chief Content Officer, Development says: “This docu-series is a powerful example of how unscripted content fosters understanding and empathy. Benita is more than a documentary; it’s the story of a remarkable woman whose authenticity touched the heart of a nation. It’s also testament to the excellent team of Zeppelin in Spain, who created the trust and safe space needed for Benita to share her journey with world.”
Benita is part of Banijay Entertainment’s burgeoning portfolio of high-profile, socially-conscious documentaries like Climate of the Earth (Diagonal), Front Row (Scenery), and Oceania: The Ocean’s Protectors (KM).