Cuban Actor Roberto Perdomo Opens Up About Personal Struggles: "Pain Took Over My Life"

Renowned Cuban actor Roberto Perdomo, a familiar face on National Television, has candidly opened up about his personal life in an emotional interview with La Familia Cubana TV. Known for his compelling performances in cinema, theater, and television, Perdomo has captured audiences with his charisma in telenovelas like "El balcón de los helechos" and the crime series "Tras la Huella." However, off-screen, he has faced significant challenges, including personal losses, battles with addiction, and life-altering decisions.

The Impact of Loss and Alcohol Addiction

Perdomo revealed the profound impact of losing his partner in Spain, with whom he shared seven years, describing it as a "crushing blow" that led him to alcoholism. "I became an alcoholic, downing a bottle of rum daily. Pain took over my life," he admitted. His grief plunged him into depression and a battle with alcohol dependency, from which he has since recovered. "I haven't touched a drink in years, but I remember what I was. Rum drained my energy, my life, and my opportunities," he reflected.

Challenging Childhood and Broken Dreams

Born in Santiago de Cuba, Perdomo's early years were happy yet overshadowed by his mother's protective nature, a consequence of him being "brought back to life" at birth. Later, he moved to Havana to pursue his acting career, sacrificing his marriage and time with his daughter—a decision he deeply regrets. "If I could change anything, it would be that. Missing my daughter's growth was too high a price," he lamented.

While in Spain, Perdomo turned down an opportunity for a major Hollywood production due to his lack of English proficiency. He later discovered the film was "Tomorrow Never Dies," a James Bond installment featuring Pierce Brosnan. In Cuba, he shone in over 20 theatrical productions, including "Abakuá" and "Santa Camila de La Habana Vieja," and became a household name across multiple generations.

Departure from "Tras la Huella" and New Ventures

Perdomo's departure from the crime series "Tras la Huella," where he played Colonel Fernando, surprised many. "I didn't leave on bad terms; it was my choice. I wanted to explore new roles and not be typecast as the eternal policeman," he explained. Since then, he has taken on diverse roles in series like "Calendario" and "Renacer," where he played an antagonist. He is set to appear in a new Cuban television drama, "Regreso al corazón," following "Sábados de Gloria," portraying a family man he hopes will resonate with viewers.

Discussing the current state of national television, Perdomo expressed his dissatisfaction: "We lack risk. We need conflict. Life is full of challenging topics, and we can't keep avoiding them." He remains committed to his craft, stating, "I want to create characters that provoke thought and stir emotions."