The well-known Cuban actress Tahimí Alvariño has firmly denied circulating rumors about her health condition that have been spreading across social media. In a statement on her official Facebook page, Alvariño condemned the source of the false news as "unscrupulous, defamatory, and deceitful," expressing regret for the distress caused to her fans and friends.
"It's disgraceful that some individuals find the time and enjoyment in spreading false information," she stated. "I am well, very well. Thanks to God, my saints, and everything that supports me." In her concise yet powerful message, the actress expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and concern she received, wishing "health and long life to everyone."
Nearly 2,000 followers celebrated her post, relieved by the reassuring news and standing by her against such malicious rumors.
A Repeated and Dangerous Trend
Alvariño's case is not an isolated incident. In recent weeks, several Cuban artists have fallen victim to false rumors concerning their health or even their deaths, raising alarms about the impact of misinformation on social networks.
One such case involved actor Patricio Wood, who was falsely reported to have died in a car accident. With humor and determination, Wood debunked the rumor in a video, stating, "It's a lie what they're saying… That's just nonsense!" Shortly afterward, presenter Marino Luzardo had to clarify that he had not undergone a heart transplant. "What a load of rubbish!" he wrote sarcastically, highlighting the absurdity of the rumor's reach.
The veteran actor Jorge Losada was also falsely declared dead in May, despite being alive and recovering. Actuar Cuba and colleagues such as art director Luis Lacosta came to his defense, harshly criticizing the irresponsibility of those spreading unverified content.
A Call for Respect and Verification
These incidents have prompted reactions from institutions like the Caricatos Agency, urging respect for artists and calling on the public to avoid spreading lies. The common plea among artists and official media outlets is to verify information before sharing it and not to be swayed by sensationalist pages that profit from scandal.
Amid a landscape marked by misinformation and a lack of effective regulations to combat it, social media has become a breeding ground for the spread of harmful rumors. These not only tarnish the image of public figures but also cause unnecessary distress to their loved ones and fans.
Alvariño, Wood, Luzardo, and Losada have made it clear they are alive and well, but they also emphasize the need for accountability in the use of digital platforms. Behind every rumor, there is a person—and a family—affected by the noise.
Addressing Misinformation in the Digital Age
What prompted Tahimí Alvariño to speak out?
Tahimí Alvariño spoke out to refute false rumors about her health circulating on social media, expressing her well-being and condemning the spread of misinformation.
How have other Cuban artists been affected by false rumors?
Several Cuban artists, including Patricio Wood, Marino Luzardo, and Jorge Losada, have faced false rumors about their health or deaths, highlighting a troubling trend of misinformation.
What is the response to these misinformation incidents?
Institutions and artists are calling for respect and urging the public to verify information before sharing, aiming to combat the spread of falsehoods on social media.