Mercedes Milá’s New TV Show “Me meto en un jardín” Marks a New Chapter in a 52-Year Career

For over half a century, Spanish journalist Mercedes Milá has been a defining voice in television, from her groundbreaking 1974 debut on TVE’s Polideportivo to her current role as a cultural commentator. Now, at 74, she is redefining her legacy with Me meto en un jardín, a new interview series on La 2 that blends travel, history, and intimate storytelling. The show, which premiered in May 2026, has sparked both intrigue and debate, offering a glimpse into the evolution of one of Spain’s most enduring media figures.

A Legacy Spanning Five Decades

Milá’s career began in 1974 as a sports reporter for Polideportivo, TVE’s flagship sports program. At a time when women in journalism faced significant barriers, her work on football, basketball, and cycling helped pave the way for future generations. Over the years, she transitioned from sports to cultural programming, becoming a familiar face on La noche de los martes and La 2 en acción. Her ability to balance rigor with warmth earned her a reputation as a trusted voice in Spanish media.

Despite her long tenure, Milá has remained a polarizing figure. Critics have occasionally accused her of favoritism toward certain political or cultural narratives, while supporters praise her depth of knowledge and commitment to storytelling. Her new project, however, signals a shift toward a more personal and reflective approach.

The Concept: A “Road Movie” for Conversations

Me meto en un jardín (literally “I Get into a Garden”) is described by TVE as a “road movie” format that combines travel with in-depth interviews. The premise is simple: Milá travels across Spain in an autocaravana (RV) with guests, visiting iconic gardens and landscapes to foster relaxed, unscripted conversations. The first episode, which aired on May 15, 2026, featured writer David Uclés, who guided her through his hometown of Quesada in Jaén and the Botanical Garden of Torre del Vinagre in Cazorla.

The show’s unique setting is both its strength and its challenge. By moving interviews out of traditional studios, Milá aims to create an atmosphere of intimacy and spontaneity. “Gardens are spaces of reflection and connection,” she said in a pre-premiere interview. “They offer a different kind of backdrop than a TV studio—there’s a sense of openness, of being part of the environment.”

However, the format has drawn mixed reactions. Some viewers praised the visual beauty of the gardens and the creative approach to interviews, while others found the first episode’s focus on the Spanish Civil War—delivered by Uclés in a series of historical monologues—to be overly didactic and repetitive. “The conversations felt more like lectures than dialogues,” one viewer wrote on social media. “I wanted to hear more from Mercedes, not just a history lesson.”

The First Episode: A Bold, Flawed Start

The debut episode, which ran for 45 minutes, was a mixed bag. Uclés, known for his detailed historical analyses, delivered a segment on the Spanish Civil War that lasted nearly 15 minutes. While some praised the depth of his insights, others felt the pacing was uneven, with long stretches of narration interrupted by brief, awkward pauses. Milá’s role as an interviewer was minimal, leading some to question whether the show’s title—implying a mutual exchange—was accurate.

Despite these criticisms, the episode showcased the show’s potential. The lush visuals of the Botanical Garden of Torre del Vinagre, with its rare plant species and serene atmosphere, provided a striking contrast to the somber tone of Uclés’ historical commentary. The segment also highlighted Milá’s ability to adapt to new formats, even if the execution was imperfect.

La 2’s programming director, Javier Martínez, defended the choice of Uclés as the first guest. “David Uclés is a prominent voice in Spanish literature and history,” he said in a press release. “His perspective on the Civil War adds a layer of academic rigor to the show, which we believe will resonate with our audience.”

What This Means for Milá’s Career

The launch of Me meto en un jardín marks a significant pivot for Milá, who has spent much of her career in sports and cultural programming. By shifting toward a more personal, travel-focused format, she is positioning herself as a multimedia storyteller rather than just a journalist. This could be a strategic move to attract younger audiences who prefer more visual and immersive content.

However, the show also raises questions about her long-term goals. Will Milá continue with this format, or is it a one-off experiment? Given her history of embracing new challenges, it’s likely the former. “I’ve always believed that journalism should evolve,” she said in a recent interview. “This show is an opportunity to explore new ways of connecting with people.”

For fans of Milá, the show offers