A casting decision for the 2013 Mexican box-office hit No Se Aceptan Devoluciones had an unexpected personal impact on comedian, actor, and director Eugenio Derbez. Working closely with young actress Loreto Peralta inspired the multi-talented star to consider fatherhood once again. This created a bond that extended far beyond the silver screen.
In statements highlighted by Revista Clase and Potosí Noticias, Derbez reflected on how their professional collaboration influenced both the movie and his family life. The film marked Peralta’s feature-film debut, casting her as Maggie, the spirited young daughter of Derbez’s character in the comedy-drama.
How a Casting Pivot Created an Unforgettable Partnership
According to production background shared by the publications, the role of Maggie was originally written for a young boy named Tommy. However, after struggling to find a candidate who matched the emotional and comedic requirements, Derbez expanded the casting search to include girls.
Peralta entered the process after her mother, Greta Jacobson, submitted photographs and videos. Possessing natural bilingual capabilities, striking charisma, and an immediate connection with Derbez during trials, she secured the role. Derbez later described finding her as the best accidental twist that could have happened to the production.
“Loreto Peralta me cambió la vida. Y lo más curioso es que, cuando la conocí, yo no estaba buscando a una niña para interpretar a Maggie,” Derbez shared in a social media message reflecting on their collaboration.
From Fiction to Real-Life Family Inspiration
The shared experience of filming the international hit transformed not only the movie’s narrative arc but also Derbez’s outlook on his personal life. After wrapping production, the actor returned home to his wife, singer and actress Alessandra Rosaldo, with a newfound desire to expand his family.
“Cuando terminamos de filmar la película regresé a casa, vi a Alessandra y le dije: Estoy listo para volver a ser papá. Quiero mi propia Maggie,” Derbez confessed, noting how the young actress had deeply touched his perspective on parenting.
That milestone culminated in the birth of his youngest daughter, Aitana Derbez, who was born on August 4, 2014-just one year after the theatrical release of No Se Aceptan Devoluciones. Today, Derbez is a father to four children: Aislinn, Vadhir, José Eduardo, and Aitana.
A Lasting Bond Across More Than a Decade
More than ten years after the premiere of the film, Derbez and Peralta have maintained a close relationship. They frequently celebrate each other’s milestones and professional achievements publicly. Peralta, who celebrated her 20th birthday recently, has consistently expressed deep admiration for her former on-screen father, calling him her greatest mentor in the entertainment industry.
“Eugenio, mi admiración y mi amor por ti va más allá de palabras. Eres mi maestro más grande y una luz de guía en mi vida,” Peralta shared in a digital tribute to the actor, acknowledging his enduring guidance and support since her early childhood days on set.
The enduring connection between the veteran filmmaker and the rising actress stands as a to how creative collaborations can transcend professional boundaries. Such partnerships can reshape personal lives and forge lifelong mentorships in the world of Latin cinema.
