In 2025, 60 years were marked since the launch of Teleenciclopedia, a show that became a cultural landmark for entire generations of Romanians. It is the longest-running production in the history of Romanian television, and its success is closely tied to an unmistakable voice—that of the incomparable Sanda Țăranu. Her career seems taken straight from a movie script, with changed dreams, unexpected decisions, and a life story that fascinated millions of viewers. From her desire to become an actress to her decision to dedicate herself to television, Sanda Țăranu’s journey is an example of perseverance, elegance, and authenticity.

From chemistry to acting, then to television

In her youth, Sanda Țăranu passionately wished to pursue an artistic career. Her dream was to become an actress, to step on stage, and perform in front of an audience. She initially enrolled in the Faculty of Chemistry but quickly realized her heart was pulling her in another direction. She had the courage to abandon the safe path and dedicate herself to the vocation that truly attracted her.

Her entry into television came in 1963, at a time when Romanian Television was the only window to the world for millions of Romanians. With grace and natural charm, Sanda Țăranu immediately stood out through her elegance and her warm voice, which effortlessly captivated audiences.

Over 35 years of career, she presented newscasts, festivals, variety shows, and special programs, becoming one of the most appreciated announcers of her era.

But the moment that truly defined her was her association with Teleenciclopedia. Since 1965, her voice accompanied the weekly documentaries, becoming for viewers a symbol of calm and balance. Many Romanians confessed that listening to her made their worries or headaches disappear—an almost therapeutic effect of her measured, warm tone.

Sanda Țăranu, a trusted voice for Romanians

Her success was due not only to her professionalism but also to her empathy. For many viewers, Sanda Țăranu became a discreet confidante. Especially women wrote her long letters, sharing their worries, joys, or sorrows.

Though she never fully understood this closeness, Sanda interpreted it as a sign of trust:
 “I don’t think they loved me—that’s too much to say. I think they somehow, for some reason, trusted me,” she admitted sincerely.

That trust turned her into a symbol of empathy and balance. At a time when television was the only source of information and entertainment, her presence brought peace and stability. She was not just a face on the screen but a presence that inspired safety and refinement.

Tenor Nicolae Țăranu, her great love

Beyond her career, Sanda Țăranu’s personal life was equally impressive. At just 17, during a summer vacation on the Romanian seaside, she met her great love: tenor Nicolae Țăranu.

It was a moment that changed her life. “He later told me that when he first saw me, he said: That’s it, here I stay!” Sanda recalled with emotion.

The two remained together for 56 years, building a relationship based not only on love but also on respect and empathy. She often emphasized that mutual respect is the foundation of any lasting bond:
 “Love is not enough—you very much need respect. To respect the other’s habits, their peace, their career.”

The stability and balance of this relationship became her refuge from professional pressures. Together they shared the joy of building a family and a life full of harmony. In a world where relationships often fall apart, their story remains an example of devotion and steadfastness.

When the break with television came

Sanda Țăranu’s career ended suddenly and painfully. After more than three decades at TVR, she was forced to leave following a controversial episode. As host of the show A Smile for the Elderly, she dared to invite poet Adrian Păunescu. The decision displeased management, which decided to remove her.

“In a way, I was fired. They pulled me off the air because I invited Adrian Păunescu,” she said sadly. It was one of the hardest moments of her life—a bitter end to an exceptional career.

Even then, Sanda remained dignified and chose to believe that “every misfortune comes with something good.” She proved once again her ability to overcome obstacles and look ahead.

The legacy of an unmistakable voice

Today, decades after the peak of her career, Sanda Țăranu’s name continues to be synonymous with elegance and professionalism. For generations who grew up before 1989, she remains the calm, steady face of Romanian Television. For younger people, she is the warm voice that accompanied Teleenciclopedia, a show that shaped curiosity and culture for many.

Sanda Țăranu was more than a television announcer: she was a symbol of refinement and good sense. In an era when public image was tightly controlled and built on appearances, she captivated through authenticity.

By leaving chemistry behind for an artistic dream, she discovered another stage—the stage of television—on which she performed a unique role for decades. Even if she did not become an actress in theaters, she remained in Romanians’ memory as a refined presence, a calm voice, and a model of dignity.

Her story is one about the courage to change paths, the strength to build a successful career from a vocation discovered along the way, and the balance between personal and professional life. In a sense, her life truly “outdid fiction” through the way she blended love, career, and dignity.

Teleenciclopedia turned 60 in 2025, but the voice that defined decades of broadcast remains alive in the collective memory. Sanda Țăranu was not just the announcer of an era but part of the very soul of Romanian television. And her legacy is not only professional but also human—the lesson of authenticity and elegance she offered to everyone.