In 2024, Emily in Paris star Lily Collins made a dazzling entrance into London’s prestigious West End theatre scene, starring alongside Money Heist’s Álvaro Morte in the gripping romantic thriller Barcelona. The play, directed by Lynette Linton and penned by acclaimed playwright Bess Wohl, captivated audiences with its suspenseful storytelling and electric chemistry between the leads. It ran at the Duke of York’s Theatre in October 2024, drawing in theatergoers eager to see Collins and Morte take on an intense and unexpected love story.
Collins, best known for her role as the stylish and ambitious Emily Cooper, stepped into a very different character—a free-spirited American traveler who finds herself caught in a web of mystery after what was supposed to be a simple one-night stand with a charming Spaniard, played by Morte. However, what starts as a fleeting romance quickly turns into something far more complex and dangerous as their personal and political lives collide. The play kept audiences on the edge of their seats, blending passion, tension, and intrigue into a story that was as thrilling as it was thought-provoking.
The official announcement on Facebook hyped up the production, promising theater lovers a “seductive thriller that will keep audiences guessing.” Critics and fans alike praised Barcelona for being “funny, sexy, and surprising,” diving deep into the idea of who we pretend to be versus who we truly are—a theme that resonated strongly with viewers.
While conquering the London stage, Collins was also juggling the excitement surrounding Emily in Paris Season 4, which premiered around the same time as Barcelona. This season took Emily beyond the romantic streets of Paris, with parts of the story unfolding in the stunning city of Rome. With the series already renewed for a fifth season, Collins hinted at even bigger adventures for her beloved character. In a lighthearted post-opening night interview with the BBC, she even toyed with the idea of an Emily in Paris spin-off set in London. “She would also definitely try to get into Buckingham Palace,” she joked, imagining Emily’s antics in the British capital.
Meanwhile, Morte, who gained worldwide fame as the brilliant but enigmatic Professor in Money Heist, opened up about his pre-show rituals. He revealed that he shakes off his nerves by dancing backstage—a trick that helps him channel energy into his performance. His dedication and charisma on stage, combined with Collins’ commanding presence, made Barcelona a must-watch production that left audiences mesmerized.
With Barcelona, both Collins and Morte proved their theatrical prowess, delivering performances that not only impressed critics but also cemented their status as versatile, powerhouse actors beyond the screen.