Bárbara is already entangled in a secret, dangerous relationship with a powerful figure—hinted to be the King of Spain, Juan Carlos I . Review Highlights
When a new series bursts onto the scene claiming to be “unlike anything you’ve seen before,” seasoned viewers often roll their eyes. Yet, every so often, a pilot episode arrives that not only lives up to the hype but shatters expectations. is precisely that moment in television.
Her introduction shows her not just surviving but dominating her environment.
┌────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ MADRID, 1979 │ └────────────────────────────────────────┘ │ ┌────────────────┴────────────────┐ ▼ ▼ ÁNGEL CRISTO BÁRBARA REY • World's best tamer • Famous "vedette" & actress • Circus drowning in debt • Secret royal affair • Desperate for a lifeline • Eyeing a major career pivot │ │ └────────────────┬────────────────┘ ▼ The Fateful Meeting: A television special proposal Ángel Cristo’s Financial Desperation untameable season 1 episode 1 top
★★★★½ (one half-star off only because I want more backstory on the goalie—next episode, please)
Visually, the production design of the first episode is a triumph. The creators have meticulously recreated the era, from the smoky, vibrant interiors of the circus tents to the opulent, high-glamour sets of variety shows. This contrast serves as a metaphor for the characters themselves: Angel’s world is raw, dusty, and grounded in survival, while Barbara’s world is polished, synthetic, and governed by public perception. Seeing these two aesthetics merge provides some of the most striking imagery in the series so far.
," sets the stage for a glitzy, high-stakes biographical drama. It effectively balances the spectacle of the 1970s Spanish circus with the private, scandalous world of national icons. Summary of Episode 1 Madrid, 1979. Bárbara is already entangled in a secret, dangerous
. However, Bárbara is preoccupied with her career and a high-stakes, secret relationship with a powerful lover, revealed to be King Juan Carlos I
"The Tamer's Skin" succeeds as a top-tier pilot episode by giving audiences exactly what they want: old-school showbiz glamour, immediate stakes, and the tragic allure of two unstoppable forces moving toward an unforgettable collision.
If you're looking for a new series to obsess over, "Untameable" is an excellent choice. Here are just a few reasons why: is precisely that moment in television
Ten years later, in 1979, the narrative shifts to a struggling reality. Ángel's circus is drowning in debt. Following the death of his trapeze artist wife, Renata, Ángel has neglected his business. His circus is now outdated and failing to secure sponsorships in a modernizing Spain. On the brink of selling everything, his team pressures him to hire a popular star to save the show, but their top prospect, Bárbara Rey, refuses due to her busy schedule. Meanwhile, Bárbara herself faces a personal and professional setback. After a romantic encounter with Spain's King Juan Carlos I, he coldly dismisses her, leaving her feeling humiliated on what should be a celebratory night.
Untameable Season 1, Episode 1: A Top-to-Bottom First Look
Untameable episode 1, "The Tamer's Skin," follows renowned circus tamer Ángel Cristo as he faces financial ruin in 1979 Madrid. To save his business, he initiates a relationship with famous star Bárbara Rey, aiming to use her fame to revitalize his circus. Watch the series on Netflix . AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more