Everyone Has a Matriarch Like Abuela in ‘Encanto,’ Lin-Manuel Miranda Shares His

Latino cultures are thought to be very macho oriented. It’s kind of funny because most of the ones I know (including mine) are ruled by very strong, resilient women. My abuelita had 11 kids and raised them on her own after my abuelo passed away shortly after my 11th tío was born. If that is not a Jefa move, I don’t know what that is…

That is exactly what happens in the Madrigal family in the latest Disney Animation movie, “Encanto” premiering today in theaters across the country. Abuela ‘Alma’ is indeed the soul and pillar of the family. After running away from the militia with three little babies, she gets blessed by a miracle and becomes the leader of the pack, not just in her family but in the entire town.

When asking the cast and crew of Encanto about their strong female figures, Lin Manuel shared that he had a similar experience in her household. You can watch the segment right here: