Antonio Banderas and family in town to enjoy Málaga’s Easter processions

Antonio Banderas getting ready to join in with Málaga's Easter processions

Antonio Banderas may be one of the world’s most bankable Hollywood stars, but he’s also an Andalusian boy who never forgot his roots or his faith.

Every year the star makes a dutiful pilgrimage to Málaga to enjoy and take part in the city’s spectacular Easter processions – and this year was no different.

With wife Melanie Griffith and their 17-year-old daughter Stella in tow, the 53-year-old actor snaffled a supreme balcony spot to watch the procession meander its way through the ancient heart of Málaga on Palm Sunday.

But the Banderas family were no mere onlookers – they joined in with the joy and solemnity of the occasion, throwing rose petals at the appropriate moments before Banderas donned traditional garb and made his way on to the streets to play his part in the service.

The actor is a member of the Virgin of Tears and Favours brotherhood and this year wore the traditional white robe – complete with black hood to preserve his anonymity – during the service, where he was escorted by Baroness Thyssen-Bornemisza, Carmen Cerveza.

Banderas takes his faith very seriously, but he was able to find time to pose for photographs with a group of admiring female fans before continuing with his duties, which included bell-ringing and prayer. Later, he was honoured by the Legion of Honor and awarded the prestigious ‘Chapiri’ cap, which he wore with evident pride.

A return to Málaga is a true return home for Banderas. He is often labelled Andalucía’s favourite son for his humility, fame, talent and unique ability to combine the common touch of an everyman with the stardust of a global icon.

It’s heartening to see that he is embraced as one of their own whenever he is in town.