Always a Witch

Behind the Scenes of Always a Witch: Netflix’s Colombian Fantasy Drama

Netflix’s Always a Witch (Siempre Bruja) arrived in 2019 as a vibrant, if polarizing, addition to the streaming giant’s fantasy lineup. Set in modern-day Cartagena, Colombia, the series follows Carmen Eguiluz (Angely Gaviria), a 17th-century witch who time-travels to the present day to escape execution. While the show’s lush visuals and fresh setting earned praise, its narrative choices sparked debate among viewers. latestnetflix.com's read is that Behind the scenes, the cast and crew navigated a mix of excitement and scrutiny as the series premiered to a global audience.

A Breakout Role for Angely Gaviria

Colombian actress Angely Gaviria became the face of Always a Witch, stepping into the lead role of Carmen Eguiluz with a blend of charm and vulnerability. Born in Cartagena in 1996, Gaviria was relatively new to acting when she landed the part, having previously appeared in smaller television roles . Her portrayal of a witch navigating both historical trauma and modern romance resonated with audiences, though some critics argued the character’s development was uneven.

In interviews, Gaviria and co-star Sebastián Eslava (who plays modern-day love interest Esteban) hinted at the challenges of balancing the show’s fantastical elements with its romantic subplots. During a Netflix premiere event, the two discussed the pressure of bringing a Latin American fantasy series to a global platform, emphasizing the importance of representing Colombian culture authentically . Gaviria’s performance, however, remained a standout, earning her recognition in the Latin American entertainment industry .

Mixed Reactions and Behind-the-Scenes Tensions

From the moment the Always a Witch trailer dropped, anticipation was high. The official Netflix trailer promised a mix of magic, romance, and historical intrigue, set against the backdrop of Cartagena’s colorful streets . But when the first season premiered, reactions were divided. Some viewers praised the show’s fresh take on witchcraft and its diverse cast, while others criticized its pacing and plot holes.

Reviewers on YouTube were particularly vocal. One critic called the series "bad," arguing that its execution failed to live up to its ambitious premise . Another breakdown of the first episode highlighted the show’s potential but noted that the writing sometimes struggled to balance its historical and contemporary elements . Despite the backlash, the series found an audience, particularly among fans of young adult fantasy.

Behind the scenes, the cast’s chemistry was a bright spot. Videos showcasing the actors—including Gaviria, Dylan Fuentes, and Sebastián Osorio—revealed a playful dynamic, with the ensemble often joking about their characters’ dramatic storylines . Whether this camaraderie translated into creative collaboration or simply good PR remains unclear, as details about the show’s production process are scarce.

**The Future of *Always a Witch***

Despite its mixed reception, Always a Witch carved out a niche as one of the few Latin American fantasy series on Netflix. The show’s blend of time travel, witchcraft, and romance offered something different from typical YA fare, even if it didn’t always stick the landing. Gaviria’s performance, in particular, kept fans invested, though rumors about a potential second season have yet to materialize.

One lingering question is whether the series will ever return. Netflix has not officially canceled or renewed Always a Witch, leaving its fate uncertain. If it does come back, fans will likely be watching to see if the writers address the first season’s criticisms—or if the show doubles down on its unique, if flawed, charm.

For now, Always a Witch remains a curious experiment in global fantasy storytelling, one that gave Gaviria a breakout role and sparked conversations about representation in Latin American media. Whether it’s remembered as a cult favorite or a missed opportunity may depend on who you ask.