2024-07-04 19:16:24
Figures in the artistic world, who are often active on social media or in the media, have remained silent regarding Massola’s death.
Among them, the absence of a statement by Luis Alberto García, one of the most visible and vocal actors on social issues in Cuba, stands out.
Renowned Cuban actor Carlos Massola passed away in the last few hours, and his passing has left a significant void in the world of Cuban entertainment and culture. Massola, who stood out for his talent and his courage in openly criticizing the Cuban regime, has not received the posthumous recognition that his career deserves from the island’s cultural institutions or from many of his fellow actors, including those who tend to publicly express their social commitment, or who, like Luis Alberto García, were his classmates.
Among the rare exceptions within the group of those closest in one way or another to Cuban cultural institutions, is the statement by Blanca Rosa Blanco.
“We were always united by good times and bad, we had a very complicit friendship, we went from admiration for art and acting to the words that occurred to him, like the one he shared since his daughter was born, he said: “Look Blanca, my Frutaombiombo”. No one else will say that word, dear Massola, no one else. Your stories, your jokes, your great possibilities as an actor, great actor, will echo in many generations! It was not free, all of us who spent a few hours at your side know that your talent was accompanied by a total, up-to-date knowledge, generosity that you shared with those who knew you,” said the Cuban actress and director on her Instagram account.
And I add:
“We spoke very recently and I remember that conversation, I remember the photos with your daughter and I remain silent with great pain for your absence in this field. We will discuss whether “Americans or Brazilians”. That is between us.”
A Ministry of Culture employee said on condition of anonymity that she was deeply offended by the silenced voices within the artistic community. When asked for some names, she said:
“Perugorría was smiling at Alexis Triana today. Silvio and Amaury must be hiding under a rock; and Luis Alberto (García) is perhaps with his friend the Lieutenant Colonel who went to pick him up one day during the filming of Habanastation.”“Melinda” said.
Luis Alberto has not been oblivious (or distant) to his Facebook profile. Just an hour ago he published a post, but about Alfredito Rodríguez Jr.
“That’s how much he cared,” This veteran MINCULT worker pointed out that “No mobilization has been held here. This death will go unnoticed here more than that of Juana Bacallao”he denounced.
The source herself admits that, even after Bacallao’s death, she saw many of those who are now silent, demanding participation from the MINCULT and the UNEAC. However, they have not done so now.
The Cuban Filmmakers’ Assembly has not commented on the death of the beloved actor either, an institution that did not take even a couple of hours to report the death of the controversial, vilified, beloved, but clearly a defender of the Cuban regime, Corina Mestre. The last post of the ACC dates back to July 1.
Among the Cuban intellectuals, the always uncomfortable and visceral voice of writer Angel Santiesteban Prats stood out.
Santiesteban Prats even provided details regarding what could have caused the actor’s pain and bleeding yesterday.
“What a timely death for Carlo Mazzola for the dictatorship, and a strange doctor who told him to take 8 metronidazoles at once!!! Have a good trip, my friend. Hugs to infinity.”
Who was Carlos Massola?
Carlos Massola had become an iconic figure not only for his performances on television and in theater, but also for his firm stance against injustice and repression in Cuba. During the last years, his life was marked by constant surveillance and political repression due to his criticism of the Castro regime. Despite the adversities, Massola always remained faithful to his principles, denouncing the living conditions on the island and supporting political prisoners and their families.
The absence of statements or tributes from cultural institutions such as the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television (ICRT) or the National Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) is striking, especially in a country where artists who have contributed significantly to the national cultural heritage are often praised.
This silence highlights the tensions and divisions within the Cuban artistic world, especially in a context where expressing support for figures critical of the regime can bring professional and personal consequences. Massola, with his courageous voice and his constant denunciations, will continue to be remembered by those who value integrity and courage in the fight for justice and freedom.