Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel expressed his condolences over the death of actor Samuel Claxton, who was celebrated as an icon of cinema, theater, and television on the island. His message, however, was met with a torrent of criticism from social media users, accusing him of hypocrisy due to the neglect Claxton reportedly suffered in his later years.
"Another blow of sadness this Saturday. With Samuel Claxton's passing, theater, cinema, television, and the entire culture of Cuba have lost one of their great figures of the past 60 years. My condolences to family, colleagues, friends, and the Cuban public," Díaz-Canel stated.
The responses were swift and unforgiving. Many users pointed out that Claxton lived in extreme hardship during his final years, without support from the state or cultural institutions. "You let him die; once he was of no use to you, you discarded him. He didn't even have basic needs met," one user accused. Another added, "Just days ago, people were begging for medical supplies and care for him online. He was forgotten..."
Some comments were even more blunt. "Now, after abandoning him and leaving him to die in utter poverty: what a bunch of hypocrites you all are," an outraged user wrote. "Do you not feel for how he spent his last days in isolation? It's a shame that an artist of his stature was left to such a dire end," questioned another.
One user sharply remarked, "Condolences? For months, Samuel Claxton's friends and family have been pleading on social media for medication, diapers, and wheelchairs for the actor due to institutional neglect. You're a total hypocrite."
Claxton passed away in Havana at 82 years old, after enduring a prolonged battle with bladder carcinoma and other medical complications that severely limited him physically. Unable to climb stairs, he had to leave his apartment in Alamar, spending his final months relying on his wife's care and public charity, as institutional aid was absent.
Libia Batista Mora, a casting director, led efforts for months to provide basic necessities for the actor, from disposable diapers and colostomy bags to a wheelchair eventually donated by supporters.
Despite his extensive career—featuring in over 60 productions—and his popularity for roles such as Mantilla in "Su propia guerra," Claxton died in what many describe as official oblivion, a sentiment echoed by family and colleagues. His case highlights the precarious situation many Cuban artists face in their old age, lacking support from the Ministry of Culture or UNEAC.
"He died in poverty, aided by friends inside and outside the island," one user commented. "You abandoned him, don't pretend to care now."
The passing of Samuel Claxton not only leaves an artistic void but also raises serious questions about the Cuban state's responsibility towards its creators. For many, the posthumous tribute arrives too late. Much too late.
Samuel Claxton's Legacy and Cuban Government's Role
Who was Samuel Claxton?
Samuel Claxton was a renowned actor in Cuba, celebrated for his work in cinema, theater, and television. He participated in more than 60 productions and was known for roles such as Mantilla in "Su propia guerra."
Why did Díaz-Canel receive criticism for his condolences?
Díaz-Canel's condolences were criticized due to the perceived neglect and lack of support Claxton faced from the state during his final years, leading many to accuse the leader of hypocrisy.
What challenges did Samuel Claxton face in his later years?
In his later years, Claxton battled bladder carcinoma and other health complications, which led to severe physical limitations. He lived in poverty, relying on the care of his wife and public charity due to a lack of institutional support.