Exclusive Interview: Carolina Moreno Talks ‘Acapulco’ Season 3, Creating Narratives That Celebrate Her Community, Lorena’s Playlist, and More

Carolina Moreno is lighting up the screen with her breakout performance in the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series, Acapulco. In the highly anticipated third season, the show delves into themes of reconciling past mistakes and embarking on exciting new beginnings. The narrative splits between two timelines: the present, where an older Máximo (Eugenio Derbez) returns to a vastly changed Las Colinas, and 1985, where a younger Máximo (Enrique Arrizon) navigates his ambitious climb up the ladder of success, risking the relationships he has fought hard to build. Carolina continues to shine as Lorena, a character who trusts and follows her heart to the very end.

Pop Culturalist had the privilege of catching up with Carolina Moreno to discuss Season 3 of Acapulco. During our conversation, Carolina shared how the series not only gives her community a voice but also celebrates its richness and diversity. She also delved into the significant role music has played in helping her embody the character of Lorena and offered a glimpse into what’s next for her character in the upcoming season.

PC: Acapulco is your first professional TV role. Do you remember what it was about this script and Lorena that initially resonated with you?
Carolina: When I first auditioned, I was actually going in for a different part, but the script totally pulled me in. Acapulco in the ’80s felt like a magical paradise, according to my mom and aunts. They used to talk about it over coffee, almost like this myth. You just don’t hear about those stories of Mexico, and it felt fresh and captivating, different from anything I’d seen before. And hearing that Eugenio Derbez was on board was a huge fan moment for me—I’ve always admired his work. Then, they had me read for Lorena, and it just felt right. I loved her energy, her humor, and her boldness. I really wanted to play her and live in that world—I was thrilled at the chance to bring her to life.

PC: Season 3 of Acapulco is airing now. As you headed into the new season, were there specific aspects of Lorena that you were most excited to explore? How has that collaboration with the creative team grown over time?
Carolina: Season 3 of Acapulco has been a real adventure, with Lorena exploring some completely new territory. I was super excited, especially about deepening Lorena’s relationship with Memo, played by the fantastic Fernando Carsa. Working with him is awesome—he’s so talented, and I pick up a lot from our time on set. At the same time, I was a bit nervous about taking on more and really wanted to do her justice. Luckily, the creative team has been incredible. They’ve been super supportive, helping me grow into the role and explore Lorena’s new layers. I’m thankful for the freedom they’ve given me—it’s been amazing.

PC: This is the longest that you’ve lived with a character. Has anything surprised you about this experience? What’s been the biggest takeaway thus far?
Carolina: It’s pretty rare to play a character for nearly three years, and what’s amazed me is watching her evolve—both inside and out—as time goes on. You grow together, and those roots just keep getting deeper. I’ve also formed such strong bonds with the entire cast that our chemistry naturally shines through—it’s genuinely authentic.

The biggest takeaway? First, I am learning from the incredible actors in this cast, and second, I am learning to evolve while staying true to the character’s essence, especially with those long breaks between filming seasons.

PC: Music plays a big role in how you prepare for a character. Has that always been your character development process? What is on Lorena’s playlist?
Carolina: Yes! Music has always helped me tap into characters, and it’s such a big part of my life. I’ve always used music to help me connect with and illustrate the world around me, and it’s also so much fun! I get to keep those playlists forever. I wanted to develop and expand her playlist as the seasons progressed to mark specific moments in her life and trigger those memories.

Here are some ’80s jams from Lorena’s playlist:

• “Devuélveme a mi chica” by Hombres G
• “Corro, vuelo, me acelero” by Timbiriche
• “You’re the Inspiration” by Chicago
• “Cuando Caliente el Sol” by Luis Miguel

PC: You’ve said in previous interviews that this role has been special because you’ve rarely seen the various communities that you’re a part of represented in this way. What has it meant to you to know that you’re ensuring that other Latinas and women won’t have to experience something similar?
Carolina: I’m incredibly grateful to be part of telling a story about the Mexico I know and love. It’s so important to continue this because it truly changes people. Just as American films made me fall in love with this country and inspired me to believe in new possibilities, we can do the same. By choosing to spotlight authentic narratives, we ensure that other Latinas and women see themselves represented in meaningful ways. It’s about creating a space where our stories are not only heard but celebrated.

PC: What can you tease about what we can expect from Lorena for the rest of the season?
Carolina: Tune in—trust me, you don’t want to miss this! I can hint that there will be some real surprises in store this season, including new faces that will shake things up at Las Colinas, like Jaime Camil bringing his irresistible charm. Maybe even a family member of Memo’s? Who knows! Plus, you’ll get to see an even quirkier side of Lorena as she takes on more responsibilities at the hotel, and you’ll enjoy watching the new friendships she forms. It’s such a great season!

PC: If we’re lucky enough to get a fourth season, where would you like to see Lorena’s storyline head?
Carolina: If lucky enough to get a fourth season, I’d love to see Lorena step it up at Las Colinas, professionally speaking, and see where that leads her in her personal life. And, fingers crossed, by season 4, Tia Lupe will finally cut the umbilical cord and let Lorena spread her wings a bit—ideally with Memo right there by her side. Love you, Tia Lupe!

To keep up with Carolina, follow her on Instagram. Season 3 of Acapulco is now airing on Apple TV+.

Photo Credit: JSquared Photography // Hair: Courtney Housner // Makeup: Marina Gravini // Styling: Ananda Rose