Infamia: Susana Abaitua Stars in HBO Max’s New Spanish Thriller, Set to Unravel Mysteries in 2026

HBO Max is poised to captivate audiences with "Infamia," its ambitious new Spanish original series, a six-episode thriller adapted from the critically acclaimed novel of the same name by acclaimed author Ledicia Costas. Headlining the cast is the talented Susana Abaitua, an actress recognized for her compelling performances, including a Goya nomination. The series, currently in production, promises a deep dive into a dark narrative of mystery, guilt, and unresolved trauma, with a highly anticipated release slated for 2026.

The production, helmed by Evafilms, commenced filming in February across the picturesque and dramatic landscapes of the Basque Country and the bustling metropolis of Madrid. This strategic choice of filming locations is intended to imbue the series with a distinct visual identity, mirroring the narrative’s thematic duality of isolated, brooding locales and the more impersonal, yet potentially concealing, urban environment. The dual settings suggest a narrative that will explore both the internal struggles of its protagonist and the external forces that shape her quest for truth.

Susana Abaitua, whose previous work in significant Spanish productions like "Patria" and "Un fantasma en la batalla" has garnered critical acclaim, is set to portray Emma Cruz, a lawyer grappling with a profound existential crisis. This role further solidifies Abaitua’s reputation as an actress adept at navigating complex emotional terrain and genre-bending narratives, particularly within the realms of drama and thriller. Her casting signals a commitment to a performance-driven series that delves into the psychological intricacies of its characters.

The ensemble cast surrounding Abaitua is equally impressive, featuring seasoned actors such as Ane Gabarain, Jorge Bosch, Jon Olivares, Iñigo Gastesi, Iñigo Azpitarte, Eva Llorach, Asier Oruesagasti, and the Goya-nominated Kandido Uranga. The inclusion of Luis Gnecco in a special guest role further elevates the caliber of talent involved, hinting at the depth and complexity of the character interactions that will drive the narrative. This carefully curated cast suggests a rich tapestry of performances designed to bring Costas’s characters to life with nuance and authenticity.

Behind the camera, the series is co-directed by Agustina Macri and Beatriz Sanchís, two notable figures in contemporary Spanish cinema. Their joint direction is expected to bring a fresh perspective and a distinctive visual style to the project. The screenplay has been penned by Manuel Gancedo and Eduardo Torallas, tasked with translating the intricate plot of Costas’s novel into a compelling episodic format. The technical team is rounded out by composer Aitor Etxebarria, renowned for his evocative scores, and editor Vicky Lammers, both of whom are expected to contribute significantly to the series’ atmospheric and suspenseful tone.

A Thriller Rooted in Unresolved Trauma and Lingering Guilt

"Infamia" centers on the story of Emma Cruz, a driven lawyer whose professional life takes a drastic turn when she becomes consumed by an unsolved case: the disappearance of two young girls two decades prior. What begins as a professional curiosity quickly escalates into a dangerous obsession, fueled by deeply personal and unresolved grief. The emotional catalyst for Emma’s fixation lies in the tragic death of her own sister during their childhood, a loss she has never fully processed and for which she carries a profound sense of guilt. This personal connection to tragedy provides the thematic bedrock of the series, suggesting a narrative that is as much about confronting internal demons as it is about uncovering external truths.

Emma’s relentless pursuit of justice leads her into the heart of Ura, a fictional, suffocatingly atmospheric town steeped in secrets and deeply connected to its land. This fictional locale is poised to become more than just a backdrop; it is envisioned as a character in its own right, its oppressive environment and historical undercurrents mirroring Emma’s internal turmoil and the weight of the past. The town’s isolation and its inhabitants’ potential complicity in concealing the truth are expected to create a palpable sense of tension and claustrophobia throughout the series. The narrative arc suggests a journey into the darkest corners of a community, forcing Emma to confront not only the perpetrators of past crimes but also the collective amnesia and buried truths that have allowed them to remain hidden.

Filming in Iconic Basque Landscapes

The visual storytelling of "Infamia" will be significantly shaped by its filming locations. The series will showcase the breathtaking and often dramatic natural beauty of the Basque Country, with significant portions shot in iconic locales. These include the Parque Natural de Gorbeia, a vast expanse of forests and mountains that offers a sense of untamed wilderness; the striking geological formations of the macizo de Itxina; the rugged terrain of the Parque Natural de Urkiola; the historic comarca of Enkarterri; the ecologically vital Reserva de la Biosfera de Urdaibai; and the dramatic coastal cliffs of the Flysch de Barrika.

In addition to these natural wonders, the series will also feature established towns and villages, such as Orozko, Areatza, and Trucios-Turtzioz, lending an authentic sense of place to the narrative. The inclusion of various locations in Madrid will likely provide a stark contrast to the rural settings, perhaps symbolizing Emma’s professional life or the broader societal context in which the past trauma has festered. The deliberate selection of these landscapes is intended to enhance the series’ thematic resonance, with the rugged, often isolated environments mirroring the characters’ psychological states and the heavy burden of secrets they carry. The visual juxtaposition of the natural world with human drama is a key element in creating the series’ intended atmospheric and emotional impact.

Anticipated Release and Broader Implications

With a total of six episodes, each running approximately fifty minutes, "Infamia" is positioned as a significant addition to HBO Max’s growing slate of high-quality Spanish productions. The platform’s continued investment in local content, particularly in the thriller genre, underscores a strategic focus on delivering compelling, culturally relevant narratives to a global audience. The adaptation of Ledicia Costas’s novel represents a significant literary adaptation, bringing a story that has already resonated with readers to a new visual medium.

The series promises a potent blend of suspense, tension, and emotional depth, driven by a protagonist haunted by guilt and driven by an unyielding need for justice. The success of "Infamia" could have broader implications for the Spanish production industry, potentially opening doors for further adaptations of acclaimed Spanish literature and solidifying the country’s reputation as a hub for sophisticated genre storytelling. The anticipation surrounding its 2026 release is high, with viewers and critics alike eager to see how this complex narrative of mystery and redemption will unfold. The series’ exploration of trauma, memory, and the enduring impact of past events on present lives is a theme that resonates universally, suggesting a potential for broad audience engagement beyond Spanish-speaking markets.

The commitment to filming in authentic, visually striking locations, coupled with a strong ensemble cast and a compelling source material, positions "Infamia" as a contender for critical acclaim and audience favor. The series’ narrative structure, delving into a decades-old mystery through the eyes of a protagonist grappling with her own demons, offers fertile ground for intricate plotting and character development. As production continues, further details regarding specific plot points and character arcs are expected to emerge, further fueling anticipation for this promising HBO Max original. The choice to adapt a novel that has already achieved significant literary success provides a strong foundation, suggesting a story with inherent narrative strength and thematic richness that can be effectively translated to the screen. The upcoming release in 2026 will mark a significant moment for Spanish television, showcasing the country’s growing prowess in producing globally competitive content.