Inklingo

How to Say "starring" in Spanish

English → Spanish

protagonista

pro-ta-go-NEES-tahpɾotaɣoˈnista

adjectiveB1cinema or theater
Use 'protagonista' when referring to the main role in a film, series, or play, emphasizing the character's central importance.
A large, bright red bird leading a flock of smaller blue birds through a sunny sky.

Examples

Consiguió un papel protagonista en la serie.

He got a leading role in the series.

Esa empresa tiene un lugar protagonista en el mercado.

That company has a leading place in the market.

La actriz protagonista no vino al estreno.

The lead actress didn't come to the premiere.

Describing things

When used as a description, it stays the same for both masculine and feminine things (un papel protagonista / una función protagonista).

estelar

ess-teh-LAHResteˈlaɾ

adjectiveB1main role/attraction
Use 'estelar' to describe the main attraction or the most outstanding performer/element, often implying a stellar quality or performance.
A person dressed in a costume standing center stage under a bright spotlight, bowing to an unseen audience.

Examples

Ella consiguió el papel estelar en la nueva película.

She got the starring role in the new movie.

La invitada estelar de la noche fue la famosa cantante.

The star guest of the night was the famous singer.

Su desempeño en la final fue absolutamente estelar.

His performance in the final was absolutely brilliant (outstanding).

Adjective Agreement

Since 'estelar' ends in 'r', it stays the same whether the noun is masculine or feminine (el papel estelar, la invitada estelar). However, you must add '-es' for plural nouns: 'los papeles estelares'.

Protagonista vs. Estelar

Learners often confuse 'protagonista' and 'estelar' because both can mean 'main role'. Remember that 'protagonista' specifically denotes the central character in a narrative, while 'estelar' highlights the quality or fame of the role or performer.

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