The Cuban actor Felito Lahera shared candid insights into his arrival in Miami and the challenges he faced working in fields far removed from acting during an interview with Destino Tolk. After building a career in Colombia, Lahera decided to move to the United States. When asked if he arrived in Miami with high hopes of continuing his acting career, Felito candidly replied, "No, I thought about it the other way around. The first thing I have to do is find a way to make a living, whatever it takes, because I have to support my family. The first thing was to take whatever came my way."
Far from the glamorous world often associated with acting, Felito began his journey in Miami as a coach on the show “Caso Cerrado.” He then worked as a producer before getting involved in a theater production. His professional path has also included jobs that many might shy away from mentioning. "You have no idea how many houses I had to clean. I painted houses, cleaned houses, I did it all. Here, I had to bite the bullet and do whatever it took," he admitted. He even shared that he drove for Uber, something he feels no shame about, considering all jobs as dignified as being a doctor.
When questioned about whether these jobs affected his ego or self-esteem after having a successful acting career in Cuba and Colombia, Felito acknowledged that while he sometimes feels a pang of nostalgia, he manages to shift his perspective. "It's contradictory because while you're painting a house, you get a call from Cuba saying you've won an award for a movie you did there," he reflected.
Adapting to a New Reality
Today, Lahera continues driving for Uber, participates in series produced by PRONYR TV, recently filmed a short film, and remains involved in theater, all without letting himself fall or feel ashamed for working honorably. He was also straightforward about his challenges as a Spanish-speaking actor in the U.S.: "If I had come to this country knowing how to speak English, I wouldn't have stayed in Miami." To him, opportunities in Spanish-language networks in this city are limited, with only Univision and Telemundo providing such platforms, and few Cubans manage to work there. He also pointed out that Spanish-language cinema has little presence in Miami.
Felito Lahera's journey is emblematic of many Cubans who have had to reinvent themselves repeatedly while far from home, never giving up on their dreams or dignity.
Challenges Faced by Spanish-speaking Actors in the U.S.
What challenges did Felito Lahera face upon moving to Miami?
Felito faced the challenge of working in fields unrelated to acting, such as cleaning houses and driving for Uber, to support his family.
How did Felito Lahera perceive his work outside of acting?
He saw all jobs as dignified and necessary for supporting his family, viewing them with pride rather than shame.
What opportunities are available for Spanish-speaking actors in Miami?
Opportunities are limited, with only a few Spanish-language networks like Univision and Telemundo providing platforms, and the Spanish-language film industry having minimal presence in Miami.