On October 22, 2001, Spanish television broadcast the first-ever gala of 'Operación Triunfo,' the singing competition that would go on to launch the careers of David Bisbal, Rosa López, Chenoa, David Bustamante and Manu Tenorio. Sixteen young contestants took part in that debut season, with no idea what to expect from the format that later seasons' hopefuls would come to know inside out.
With roughly a month and a half to go before the show marks 25 years since that first broadcast, here is how the top five finishers from that inaugural edition, who lived together in the programme's Academy while competing for a recording contract on the then state broadcaster TVE, have fared since. The order runs from the eventual winner down to the first of the five to leave the competition.
Rosa López, the first winner
Rosa López was the first winner of the talent show, a title that opened the door for everyone who followed her. She is currently writing a biography tracing a career that has had its share of highs and lows and has produced ten albums. Her physical transformation over the years has become a frequent subject of chat-show discussion, headlines and comment.
David Bisbal, the runner-up turned superstar
David Bisbal fell just short of winning, but the curly-haired singer from Almería still carved out a place in the Spanish music market. A quarter of a century on, he is at one of the best points of his career, preparing to release his album 'Eternos,' with three children and a wife who travel with him wherever his projects take him. Of that original line-up, he may be the most consolidated name in an industry known for its instability.
David Bustamante's touring years
David Bustamante has released eleven albums over a career marked by ups and downs, one that has always kept the loyalty of the fans who backed him from the start. The singer from San Vicente de la Barquera has long been known for his charisma. He has spent two consecutive summers touring Spain with his 'Inédito Tour,' built around the studio album of the same name, his most recent release. He has also taken part in television competitions including 'Bailando con las estrellas' and 'Tu cara me suena.'
Chenoa's move into television
In recent years, Chenoa's career has leaned more towards television, though she still performs live. This summer she played several dates for an audience that has followed her closely since she first became known on what was then TVE. The singer, who is from Mallorca, has released some singles in recent years but is currently enjoying a strong run on the small screen.
Manu Tenorio's steady path
Manu Tenorio has acknowledged going through difficult emotional periods at times, but has still managed to release nine albums. Known for a melodic voice suited to deep ballads, he has built a settled life alongside Silvia Casas, who has been by his side for almost his entire career in the industry.
