The Cuban comedian Ulises Toirac took to Facebook to share an emotional message about his recent reunion with actor Jorge Martínez, affectionately known as "el Yoyi," which took place last Friday.
Ulises appeared on the YouTube program "La familia cubana," where Jorge serves as one of the hosts.
"One of the highlights of last night was reconnecting with Yoyi," Toirac wrote at the beginning of his post, which quickly garnered reactions from his followers.
Toirac did not hold back in expressing his admiration for his friend and colleague: "Jorge Martínez is one of the actors I admire, respect, and love the most. Not just for his talent and professionalism, but for his human quality, charisma, and simplicity. And his courage."
The reunion brought back memories of their collaboration on the comedic television program "¿Jura decir la verdad?," a show Ulises created in 2001 inspired by the classic radio series "La tremenda corte," where he played the character "Chivichana," featuring a different guest every week.
Toirac recalled that Martínez's appearance on that show was one of the most challenging roles designed for a guest: "The script involved having the spirit of Chivichana possess him, requiring him to act as both himself (his persona) and the show's criminal."
Instead of being intimidated by the challenge, Martínez embraced it with enthusiasm: "It was a complex test. But Yoyi tackled it with enviable enthusiasm and had fun (we all did) in the process," Ulises wrote, describing that episode as "one of the chapters I remember with the most joy."
The message concluded with a straightforward declaration of affection: "You're loved, brother. Always and greatly."
Jorge Martínez is one of the most distinguished actors in Cuban cinema and television, with a filmography ranging from "La bella del Alhambra" (1989) to "Últimos días en La Habana" (2016).
However, his career has not been without challenges. Around 2013, he was diagnosed with cancer in his left lung, leading to the removal of that organ.
In 2023, he faced another malignant diagnosis, this time in his throat, with an initial prognosis of six months to live. Fortunately, he overcame both ordeals.
Martínez also experienced censorship from the Cuban Institute of Radio and Television (ICRT) in 2006 when his program "El Expreso," which he hosted on Cubavisión, was canceled after broadcasting his own wedding on television.
In 2025, the actor recounted that incident with a mix of indignation and irony: "They treated us like criminals," he said, adding, "none of those officials exist anymore, and I continue to exist as an artist."
This reunion is not the first public meeting between Toirac and Martínez. On June 25, 2024, they crossed paths once again in Havana, a moment captured on video that also stirred emotional reactions among their fans.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ulises Toirac and Jorge Martínez
Who is Ulises Toirac?
Ulises Toirac is a well-known Cuban comedian and actor, famous for his work in Cuban television and his comedic talent.
What health challenges has Jorge Martínez faced?
Jorge Martínez has faced significant health challenges, including a diagnosis of lung cancer in 2013 and throat cancer in 2023, both of which he successfully overcame.
What is "¿Jura decir la verdad?"
"¿Jura decir la verdad?" is a Cuban comedic television program created by Ulises Toirac in 2001, inspired by the classic radio show "La tremenda corte."