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Argentina Superstar, Lionel Messi makes acting debut in TV show
Lionel Messi, having achieved World Cup glory with Argentina, has now made his first foray into the acting world. The Argentine captain, soon to join Inter Miami in the MLS, appeared in the opening episode of the second season of “Los Protectores” (“The Protectors”), an Argentine comedy drama series that premiered on Star + in Latin America on June 25.
In the show, three struggling soccer agents unite forces when a soccer star emerges. Messi is featured in a five-minute scene, playing himself during his time at Paris Saint-Germain. The agents, portrayed by actors Andres Parra, Adrian Suar, and Gustavo Bermudez, visit Messi in the French capital. Initially discussing a project to support young players in European clubs, the agents irritate Messi when they begin requesting photographs, autographs, and videos with the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner.
One of the agents, Renzo “Mago” Magoya, presents a preposterous proposal for Messi to play one game for every club in Argentina. Unimpressed, Messi candidly expresses his disinterest, creating an awkward situation. However, the tension is eventually resolved, and everyone raises a glass for a toast.
Solo le faltó decirle “andá pa’ allá, bobo” 🤣
Lo viste a Leo en #LosProtectores? La nueva temporada ya está completa en #StarPlusLA. pic.twitter.com/BG1c05Xmbu
— Star+ Latinoamérica (@StarPlusLA) June 26, 2023
Messi’s acting debut was well-received by fans of the show and the actors themselves.
“Throughout my career, I have given directions to many actors,” wrote Argentine actor Adrian Suar on Instagram. “I did good for some, and I ruined the career of others. But the only one who understood my directions perfectly is number one @leomessi.”
As Messi’s career has taken him from Barcelona to Paris and now to Miami, each move has brought him closer to Hollywood—though it is purely coincidental.