Renowned Cuban actor Samuel Claxton, a celebrated figure in the realms of cinema, television, and theater, has died in Havana at the age of 82 after battling a lengthy and severe health condition. The news of his passing was confirmed by casting director Libia Batista Mora, who in recent months spearheaded numerous support campaigns to provide for the essential needs of this artist, who was in a dire state of vulnerability.
Claxton is fondly remembered by generations for his iconic role as Mantilla in the series "Su propia guerra" and his appearances in films such as "La última cena," "En 3 y 2," and "Caravana." Despite his illustrious career, Claxton lived out of the public eye, relying entirely on the care of his wife and the goodwill of the community due to a lack of institutional support.
Born in Camagüey in 1943, Claxton participated in over 60 film and theater productions, establishing himself as one of the most recognized figures in 20th-century Cuban performing arts. However, his later years were marked by hardship: he underwent surgery for bladder carcinoma, a percutaneous nephrostomy, and faced severe physical limitations that forced him to leave his home in Alamar as he could no longer navigate stairs.
In the months of April and May, the platform Cubaactores along with Libia Batista Mora issued urgent calls on social media to acquire disposable diapers, urinary catheters, urine collection bags, and a wheelchair for Claxton, which was eventually donated thanks to public generosity. "Thank you for the support. I now have the wheelchair for actor Samuel Claxton," Batista announced last Thursday, in one of her final messages before his passing.
Claxton's death highlights the troubling circumstances faced by many Cuban artists in their later years, lacking financial security or guaranteed medical care from the Ministry of Culture or the UNEAC. Social media was rife with calls for action: "At the very least, he should have access to catheters and a urine collector without having to plead," one outraged user expressed.
This is not an isolated incident. This same week, actress and singer Iyaima Martínez Navarro was revealed to be suffering from a severe health condition, requiring basic materials such as Tramadol, diapers, and absorbent sheets.
Claxton is especially remembered for his role as Mantilla in "Su propia guerra," as well as his significant contributions to major theatrical works like "Santa Camila de La Habana Vieja" and "María Antonia." Numerous figures from Cuban film, television, and theater have begun to share heartfelt tributes on social media.
Challenges Faced by Cuban Artists
What were some challenges Samuel Claxton faced in his later years?
In his later years, Samuel Claxton faced significant health challenges, including surgery for bladder carcinoma and severe physical limitations. These issues forced him to leave his home and rely on community support for basic necessities due to a lack of institutional aid.
How did the community support Samuel Claxton?
The community rallied around Samuel Claxton by participating in support campaigns to gather essential items such as a wheelchair, disposable diapers, and urinary supplies, showcasing the power of public solidarity in the absence of institutional support.
What impact did Samuel Claxton have on Cuban arts?
Samuel Claxton left a profound impact on Cuban arts through his involvement in over 60 film and theater productions, becoming one of the most prominent figures in 20th-century Cuban culture with memorable roles in both TV series and theatrical performances.