Cuban comedian Yuri Rojas, famed on social media for his character Zoila Bárbara, is experiencing a thrilling chapter in his life: his inaugural journey through Europe. From the iconic streets of Madrid and Paris, Rojas has been delighting his followers with videos that blend excitement, irony, and his unfiltered Cuban charm. "Oh my God, what beauty... I'm shaking!" he exclaims with laughter upon arriving in Madrid, visibly moved as he showcases the Royal Palace Gardens or flaunts a shopping bag with apples, cheese, and wine for "only" 38 euros. "What an unexpected surprise!" he exclaims, using the lively language that resonates with everyday Cubans.
In his stories, Yuri contrasts European daily life with the stark shortages that define life in Cuba: "For those living abroad, this is normal, but for us, it's new... It's as if we've just emerged from our shells," he reflects, blending humor with raw truth. These sentiments have struck a chord with many Cubans, both on the island and abroad, who understand the significance of witnessing something long deemed unattainable for the first time.
On the Madrid metro, the actor admits he's getting odd looks for narrating his experiences aloud, but far from being embarrassed, he embraces it: "Better I don't say where I'm from, the fact I've even left is a miracle." This statement encapsulates a painful and shared reality for many Cubans: the challenges of leaving the country and the weight of hopes pinned on each journey.
Paris: Awe, Cold, and a Touch of Vertigo
Earlier in Paris, Yuri couldn't hide his amazement: "Seeing it up close... this is incredible," he says, standing before the Eiffel Tower. He laughs, sings, bundles up against the cold, and even regrets venturing to the top due to his fear of heights. "They'll have to carry me down!" he jokes.
The trip also featured dining at what he describes as the oldest Chinese restaurant in Paris, a visit to the famed "love locks" bridge, and a touching reflection on achieving a dream once thought impossible: "Sing it to make it lighter. This Sunday video is a mix of Sunday and miracle," he remarks with a blend of sarcasm and gratitude.
An Artist Rooted in Cuba with His Heart on the Island
Born in Las Tunas, Yuri Rojas is renowned for his extensive acting career, particularly in children's theater, though his fame skyrocketed with the creation of Zoila Bárbara, a candid and endearing Cuban woman who has captured the hearts of social media audiences.
Unlike many of his peers who have emigrated, Yuri continues to reside in Cuba, seizing every opportunity to portray the Cuban daily life through his videos, filled with humor and social critique. He has previously drawn laughs by highlighting the appalling conditions of a hotel in Matanzas or tackling the perpetual ordeal of packing for a return to the island: "Too much need for such a small suitcase," he once quipped, sparking a wave of comments and empathy.
Understanding Cuban Comedian Yuri Rojas' European Adventure
What character made Yuri Rojas popular on social media?
Yuri Rojas became popular on social media for his portrayal of Zoila Bárbara, a candid and endearing Cuban woman.
How does Yuri Rojas contrast life in Europe with that in Cuba?
Rojas draws a contrast by highlighting the everyday experiences in Europe as normal yet new and extraordinary for those from Cuba, emphasizing the scarcity and challenges faced back home.
What reaction does Yuri receive when narrating his experiences in the Madrid metro?
Yuri notes that he receives strange looks for narrating his experiences aloud, but he embraces it as a celebration of his journey.