Cuban actor Jorge Martínez, a well-known figure in national television, has finally opened up about a pivotal moment in his career: the cancellation of his show after airing his own wedding ceremony. In a recent interview with "La Familia Cubana," Martínez recounted the events of 2006 when he was hosting "El Expreso," a music magazine show broadcast on Sundays by Cubavisión.
The show's direction team decided to stage a wedding with his then-girlfriend, a dancer from the same group, to be shown as part of the program. The ceremony was pre-recorded and aired four days later. The reaction from the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television (ICRT) was harsh; they released an official statement deeming the event "unacceptable" and announced sanctions for those involved.
The incident sparked a wave of criticism within the media system. Although there was an attempt to continue the show as if nothing had happened, neither Martínez nor the director agreed. As a result, "El Expreso" was canceled. Martínez described the situation as "embarrassing and disrespectful" towards both them and the audience, likening their treatment to that of criminals.
He pointed out the hypocrisy of high officials who celebrated weddings in places like Cancún or on yachts. It wasn't the first time an actor had married on television, yet the repercussions were severe. Reflecting on the incident, Martínez noted, "In this country, life is fleeting, but institutional cowardice is a constant." He was particularly disappointed by the lack of support from the leadership, who chose to hide rather than defend their team.
"Those leaders are gone today, but I remain as an artist. Artists are for the people; leaders come and go," he remarked, highlighting the temporary nature of authority figures in contrast to enduring artistic influence.
An Overcoming Spirit
In the same interview, Martínez also discussed his battle with cancer, which he has faced twice. Over a decade ago, he was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer. Doctors gave him only six months to live, and he underwent surgery to remove a lung. At the time, he was smoking two packs of cigarettes a day. "I couldn't go one or two hours without smoking," he admitted.
Defying expectations, he overcame the illness and soon after returned to the film set of "Últimos días en La Habana," directed by Fernando Pérez. For the role, he lost 12 kilograms in just two months, a considerable feat given his health condition.
His second health struggle came in 2023 when he was diagnosed with throat cancer. While filming the soap opera "El derecho de soñar," he discovered two cancerous lymph nodes. He underwent chemotherapy and radiation while shooting up to 14 scenes daily. "I lost my palate, salivary glands, everything. I was on liquids and soups for almost a year, and my weight dropped to 42 kilos," he remembered.
During this challenging time, he lived alone and relied on the help of a friend in Italy, who took him in for a year, aiding his recovery. Today, Martínez continues to be active in the acting world and assures that he is feeling well.
Despite facing silence, illness, and institutional reprimands, Jorge Martínez remains a significant figure in Cuban art, supported by the unwavering love of his audience.
Insights into Jorge Martínez's Career and Health Battles
Why was Jorge Martínez's show canceled?
Jorge Martínez's show was canceled because he aired his own wedding ceremony on television, which the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television deemed "unacceptable," leading to sanctions for those involved.
How did Jorge Martínez overcome his lung cancer diagnosis?
Martínez overcame his lung cancer diagnosis by undergoing surgery to remove a lung and quitting smoking. Despite a grim prognosis, he defied expectations and returned to acting.
What challenges did Jorge Martínez face during his battle with throat cancer?
During his battle with throat cancer, Martínez underwent chemotherapy and radiation while continuing to work on a soap opera. He lost significant weight and had to subsist on liquids due to the treatment's impact on his body.