Amidst Cuba's most severe economic downturn in recent years, characterized by daily power outages, soaring inflation, scarcity, and an unprecedented wave of migration, Sandro Castro, the grandson of the late dictator Fidel Castro, has broken his silence in an exclusive interview with Argentine channel TN. Speaking from his bar located in the Vedado neighborhood of Havana through a video call, the 33-year-old claims he steers clear of politics. "My thing is making people laugh," he stated.
With a following of 126,000 on Instagram and a public image that elicits both admiration and criticism, Sandro, born on December 5, 1991, has become a controversial media figure. For many Cuban exiles, especially in Miami, he represents the frivolous and disconnected side of an elite that, unlike the general populace, can afford to enjoy Havana's nightlife, surrounded by friends, Cristal beer, and electronic music.
The Life Behind the Bar
Despite being part of the Castro lineage, Sandro insists, "I have no privileges. I endure the power outages like everyone else. I live off my business, I'm simple, and I move freely." As the owner of the EFE bar, located at the bustling intersection of 23 and F, he manages his life as a blend of entrepreneurship and showmanship, which often involves excesses not forgiven by most Cubans. He's also been seen using his employees in his videos.
On social media, he takes on the persona of "Vampirash," a lover of nightlife and parties, often seen surrounded by young people, lights, and bottles. "I don't offend anyone. I enjoy art and humor. Politics isn't my thing," he asserts.
A Controversial Figure
His name became a trending topic on social media in 2021 after a video leaked showing him driving a Mercedes Benz on a Cuban highway while the country grappled with a severe fuel shortage. He later clarified the car was borrowed, the video was private, and he never intended to flaunt. "I apologized at the time. It was never my intention to portray something I'm not."
Many Cubans, however, criticize him for living in a bubble. "I try not to respond to those people. I respect opinions but stay focused on my content," he says.
Culture Over Politics
Sandro Castro refrains from commenting on power outages, the migration crisis, or the July 11th repression. "I don't like to talk about that. We're fighting, we want improvement. I have faith that things will get better." Although he identifies as a revolutionary, he maintains that his domain is culture, not politics. "I love art and sports. My grandfather was a great idol, always supporting artists. I believe he would be proud of me."
His increasing presence on social media has caught the attention of European outlets like Corriere della Sera, El País, and Deutsche Welle, which describe him as a symbol of the Cuban Revolution's decline. "His mere existence is a living critique of Castroism," stated writer Amir Valle. "Sandro doesn't need to speak: his life says it all."
The Weight of a Legacy
Despite efforts to portray himself as an ordinary Cuban, Sandro acknowledges the weight of his surname. "I'm proud to be a Castro, but I have no privileges. I'm a young man of this era." He is the son of Alexis Castro Soto del Valle, one of Fidel's sons with Dalia Soto del Valle, and Rebeca Arteaga; his childhood unfolded near Punto Cero, the Castro family's complex in Havana.
According to accounts from people close to the family, such as Idalmis Menéndez, ex-partner of Álex Castro, Sandro grew up surrounded by luxuries, unaware of the hardships faced by millions of Cubans. In the interview with TN, he also revealed he has never visited Argentina, although he admires DJs like Hernán Cattáneo and players like Messi, while confessing he is a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo.
To conclude, he was unequivocal: "Politics is not for me. I prefer to make people laugh with me."
Insight into Sandro Castro's Life and Views
What is Sandro Castro's stance on politics?
Sandro Castro has stated that he does not engage in politics and prefers to focus on making people laugh and his business ventures.
How does Sandro Castro manage his business?
He operates his bar EFE as a combination of entrepreneurship and showmanship, emphasizing a personal approach rather than political engagement.
Why has Sandro Castro faced criticism?
Many criticize him for living a privileged life disconnected from the struggles of ordinary Cubans, although he claims to experience the same hardships.