The Vargas Llosa Family Drama: From Preysler Romance to On-Air Tension

The death of Mario Vargas Llosa at the age of 89 has brought back to the forefront not only his literary legacy but also the intricate family dynamics that defined his later years. The turbulent period surrounding his relationship with Isabel Preysler and its impact on his family remains a topic of intense scrutiny and debate in the Spanish media.

In 2015, Vargas Llosa's 50-year marriage to Patricia Llosa came to an abrupt end when his romance with Isabel Preysler became public. The announcement sent shockwaves through his family, with his children, Gonzalo and Morgana, reportedly feeling "surprised and very saddened" by the news, as they learned about it through the press.

While Mario Vargas Llosa embarked on a new chapter with Preysler, Patricia Llosa retreated from the public eye, seeking solace in the Dominican Republic. Sources indicate she even wrote a letter to Preysler, hinting at the cyclical nature of Vargas Llosa's emotional episodes, a premonition that would later prove accurate.

The children of Mario Vargas Llosa, particularly Gonzalo and Morgana, sided firmly with their mother. They reportedly never accepted Isabel Preysler, with Gonzalo labeling the relationship a "commercial product." Morgana expressed concerns about her father's perceived loneliness during his time with Preysler. Both publicly supported their mother when the affair came to light.

The relationship between Vargas Llosa and Preysler ended in December 2022, reportedly due to Vargas Llosa's jealousy. Following the breakup, the family began to reconcile, seemingly putting past grievances aside.

The death of Mario Vargas Llosa has also sparked heated debates on television programs like 'Espejo Público'. On April 15, 2025, a segment dedicated to the passing of Vargas Llosa turned contentious when Pilar Vidal, known for her friendship with Isabel Preysler, suggested that Preysler wasn't surprised by the news due to the writer's declining health. This commentary caused friction among the panelists, with Miquel Valls accusing Vidal of losing tact in her defense of Preysler and potentially attacking the grieving children. Gema López defended Vidal, leading to further arguments and a plea from Lorena Vázquez for Susanna Griso to return to the show.

The situation escalated to the point where Valls expressed his discomfort with the focus on Preysler's perspective, leading Gema López to retort, suggesting he leave the set if he was uncomfortable. This on-air clash highlights the sensitivity and ongoing tensions surrounding Vargas Llosa's relationships and the different viewpoints surrounding his legacy.

The complexities of Mario Vargas Llosa's personal life continue to fascinate and generate debate in the Spanish-speaking world. His legacy extends beyond his literary achievements to include the drama and intrigue of his relationships, offering a multifaceted and often conflicting narrative. What are your thoughts on the role of the media in covering such personal matters?

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• Espejo Público
• Isabel Preysler
• Mario Vargas Llosa