Adela Legrá, a legendary figure in Cuban cinema and one of the leading actresses in the film Lucía (1968), passed away early on January 2 in Santiago de Cuba at the age of 86.
Legrá was taken urgently to the Provincial Hospital of Santiago de Cuba, where she died just hours later. This information was confirmed by Cubacine's Facebook page, a portal associated with the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (Icaic).
Born into a humble background, Legrá spent her early years working in agriculture and domestic roles across various areas of the former Oriente province. Her introduction to the world of cinema came while she was involved with the Federation of Cuban Women in Baracoa. It was there that filmmaker Humberto Solás (1941-2008) discovered her and offered her the leading role in Manuela (1965).
Her natural talent and expressive strength captivated audiences and critics alike, prompting Solás to cast her again in one of the primary roles in Lucía, a film that stands as one of the most significant achievements in Cuban and Latin American cinema. In this movie, Legrá portrayed a rural woman from the 1960s, a character that became emblematic of the Cuban woman's journey toward emancipation during the early years of the Cuban Revolution.
Throughout her career, she appeared in several pivotal films of Cuban cinema, including Rancheador (1976), El Brigadista (1977), Polvo Rojo (1981), Miel para Oshún (2001), and Barrio Cuba (2005). She also contributed to television.
Legrá's contributions to the film industry earned her numerous accolades, notably the Lucía Honor Award at the opening ceremony of the 2017 Gibara International Festival of Poor Cinema. This award is inspired by the iconic film Lucía.
During the festival, fellow actress Eslinda Núñez—who starred in the second story of Lucía—and the family of filmmaker Solás were also honored, celebrating their life-long dedication to cinema. At the event, Legrá expressed her gratitude to Jorge Perugorría, then president of the festival, for continuing Solás's vision and thanked the people of Gibara for their unwavering cultural spirit.
Following the announcement of her death, film critic Juan Antonio García took to Facebook to reminisce about her participation in the 2006 National Workshop on Film Criticism, describing the news of her passing as "sad, very sad."
Remembering Adela Legrá's Contribution to Cuban Cinema
Who was Adela Legrá?
Adela Legrá was a prominent Cuban actress known for her roles in iconic films like Lucía and Manuela. She is celebrated for her natural acting style and significant contributions to Cuban cinema.
What is the significance of the film Lucía?
Lucía is considered one of the most important works in Cuban and Latin American cinema, highlighting women's roles and struggles during the Cuban Revolution. Adela Legrá's performance in the film made her an emblematic figure.
What awards did Adela Legrá receive?
Adela Legrá was honored with several awards, including the Lucía Honor Award, recognizing her significant impact on the Cuban film industry.