Netflix has confirmed that The Child, also known as El Niño, will arrive on its global catalog on November 27, 2026. It is a Spanish drama directed by Mariano Barroso, inspired by a true story that shocked all of Spain, and stars Money Heist actress Belén Cuesta alongside Karra Elejalde and Raquel Ferri.
The film adapts the novel of the same name by Fernando Aramburu, who also served as an executive producer on the project. In addition to directing, Mariano Barroso wrote the screenplay and produced the film alongside Rafael Portela.
Barroso shared his thoughts on the project: "I am delighted to continue my work with Netflix, this time writing and directing my next film. Working with the teams at this house is one of the best experiences of my career. Adapting Fernando Aramburu's novel is a great challenge and an exciting privilege."
For his part, Fernando Aramburu, author of the novel and executive producer, explained the personal origin of the story: "The accident in Ortuella had a deep echo within me over the years. I felt it claimed its own space within the series of stories called 'Gentes vascas' that I was determined to tell. The adaptation of this project by Netflix pleases me greatly and, at the same time, reinforces the certainty that these children, who died in that tragedy in 1980, deserve a dignified space in our memory."
When is The Child released on Netflix?
Netflix has officially confirmed that The Child will be released on November 27, 2026. At the moment, the platform has not released any trailer or teaser for the film.
What is The Child about?
Netflix has released the following official synopsis for the film: "It tells the story of Mariaje (Belén Cuesta) and Nicasio (Karra Elejalde), the mother and grandfather of one of the children who died in the gas explosion that occurred in a town in Biscay in October 1980. This tragedy shocked the town and all of Spain, and changed their lives forever. Our protagonists refuse to accept the tragedy. On a journey of discovery and resilience, full of unexpected emotions, Mariaje and Nicasio seek—and find—their own way to overcome the loss."
The plot is based on a real event: the gas explosion that shook a town in Biscay in 1980 and deeply affected the families involved and Spanish society at the time.
The Child cast
Belén Cuesta plays Mariaje. Fans of Money Heist will remember her for her role as Julia, also known as Manila. The actress has also participated in Netflix titles such as Paquita Salas and Rotten Legacy, in addition to being known outside the platform for Holy Camp, The Endless Torch, and Past Lies.
Karra Elejalde plays Nicasio. This will be his first project for Netflix, although the actor has an extensive career in Spanish cinema thanks to films such as Timecrimes, Even the Rain, Spanish Affair, and 100 Meters.
The rest of the confirmed cast includes Raquel Ferri (Wild Road) in the role of Garbiñe, Leyre Berrocal (La que se avecina) as Lupe, Pep Ambròs (Who Is Erin Carter?), Marco Ibarra (El Mal) as Civil Guard Sergeant, Helena Sáenz (Mithyabadi) as Elena Sáenz, and Asier Tartás-Landera as Ihesaldia, Electrician.
The Child production status
The exact date filming for El Niño began has not been confirmed, but Netflix has confirmed that filming concluded in Madrid, Spain, on June 30, 2025.
Frequently asked questions about The Child on Netflix
When is The Child released on Netflix?
Netflix has confirmed that The Child will be released worldwide on November 27, 2026.
Who directs The Child?
The film is directed and written by Mariano Barroso, who adapted the novel of the same name by Fernando Aramburu.
Who stars in The Child?
The main cast is led by Belén Cuesta as Mariaje, Karra Elejalde as Nicasio, and Raquel Ferri as Garbiñe.
What real events is The Child based on?
The story is inspired by the gas explosion that occurred in a town in Biscay in October 1980, an event that shocked all of Spain.
Is there a trailer for The Child yet?
No, Netflix has not yet released any official trailer or teaser for the film.
