Dominican television and radio personality Jochy Santos experienced a profoundly moving moment Wednesday night, dedicating the prestigious Gran Soberano award – the highest honor bestowed by the Asociación de Cronistas de Arte (ACA) – to his mother, Alina Marte. The emotional exchange, captured on social media, has resonated widely, highlighting the deep bond between the entertainer and his matriarch.
“Le traje su Soberano ahí, doña. Eso es suyo,” Santos said, handing the award to his mother, according to reports. (“I brought your Soberano here, doña. What we have is yours.”) Marte’s reaction was one of joyful disbelief. “¡Ay, qué bello! ¡Ay, Dios mío! Eso es tuyo, ay, pero qué belleza y lo que pesa. Espérate, que eso pesa mucho y se me cae,” she exclaimed, carefully holding the statuette, as Santos shared his signature laugh. (“Oh, how beautiful! Oh, my God! It’s yours, oh, but how beautiful and how heavy. Wait, it’s very heavy and I’m going to drop it.”)
The Gran Soberano award recognizes Santos’s decades-long contribution to Dominican entertainment. He received the honor during the Premios Soberano 2026 gala, an annual event celebrating excellence in the arts. Santos’s career began in radio in 1975, and he has since become a household name, known for his humor and ability to connect with audiences. He has consistently maintained that “although the years pass, laughter will always be the medicine of the soul.”
A Legacy of Laughter and Opportunity
Currently, Santos hosts “Es Temprano Todavía” on Color Visión television and the radio program “El Mismo Golpe con Jochy” on Zol FM. But his influence extends far beyond his own on-air presence. Santos has a long-standing reputation for championing emerging talent, providing a platform for numerous Dominican artists to launch their careers.
Among those he has mentored and supported are Aquiles Correa, Hony Estrella, Irving Alberti, Diana Filpo, Raulito Grisanty, JR Acosta, Raymond Ortiz, Félix Tejeda (Ñonguito), Gerald Ogando, and Albert Mena. He’s also given early exposure to beloved comedic characters like Federico, Doña Chicha, and Doble J, many of whom have become stars in their own right. This dedication to fostering the next generation of Dominican entertainers has cemented his legacy as more than just a performer, but as a true incubator of talent.
The Premios Soberano and the Asociación de Cronistas de Arte
The Premios Soberano, organized by the Asociación de Cronistas de Arte (ACA), are considered the most prestigious awards in the Dominican Republic’s entertainment industry. The ACA, founded in 1968, is comprised of journalists specializing in art and entertainment, and its members select the winners in various categories. The Gran Soberano is a lifetime achievement award, recognizing an individual’s significant and lasting impact on Dominican culture.
A 50-Year Journey in Entertainment
Santos’s five-decade career began at a time when Dominican radio was undergoing a period of significant growth and innovation. He quickly established himself as a charismatic and engaging personality, attracting a loyal following. His transition to television further broadened his reach, allowing him to connect with audiences on a larger scale. Throughout his career, Santos has remained committed to his core values: humor, positivity, and a genuine connection with his audience.
His ability to adapt to changing media landscapes, while staying true to his comedic roots, has been key to his enduring success. He’s embraced new technologies and platforms, consistently finding ways to reach and entertain audiences in a rapidly evolving world. This adaptability, combined with his unwavering dedication to supporting emerging talent, has solidified his position as a leading figure in Dominican entertainment.
The moment shared with his mother at the Premios Soberano was a powerful reminder of the personal values that underpin Santos’s professional achievements. It was a public display of gratitude and love, resonating with audiences who recognize the importance of family and the enduring power of a mother’s influence.
The ACA has not yet announced details regarding the 2027 Premios Soberano, but information will be available on their official website as the event approaches. Jochy Santos’s continued work on “Es Temprano Todavía” and “El Mismo Golpe con Jochy” promises to bring more laughter and opportunities to the Dominican entertainment scene.
What do you think about Jochy Santos’s career and his dedication to Dominican entertainment? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
