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Javier Bardem Opens Up on Penélope Cruz’s Postpartum Depression and His Own Struggles

Bardem reflects on navigating parenthood while filming abroad, noting how they preserve family bonds across continents

Penélope Cruz y Javier Bardem en la gala de los Oscars 2022
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Overview

  • After the birth of son Leo in 2011, Cruz endured a severe postpartum depression that Bardem only realized fully years later
  • Bardem disclosed he faced prolonged sadness during the filming of No Country for Old Men and credits Josh Brolin’s support for his recovery
  • The couple, married since 2010, live in Madrid with their children Leo and Luna and have maintained a commitment to privacy and mutual understanding
  • While shooting an Apple TV+ series in Atlanta, Bardem carries handwritten letters from Cruz and drawings from their children to stay connected
  • To limit strain on their marriage, Bardem and Cruz agreed never to spend more than two consecutive weeks apart for work commitments