Ángel Miguel Alea Casadeval, affectionately known as "El Profe," passed away at the age of 86 in Santiago de Cuba this Thursday, as announced by CMKC Radio Revolución.
His death, occurring around 5:00 AM, leaves a significant void in the radio community of eastern Cuba.
A Legacy Rooted in San Luis, Santiago de Cuba
Born on July 5, 1939, in San Luis, Santiago de Cuba, Alea Casadeval dedicated over sixty years to broadcasting, applied linguistics, and training future communicators.
His passion for radio emerged during his teenage years; at just 14, he began his journey behind the microphone at a small local station.
Building a Distinguished Career
From those humble beginnings, he advanced his career through stations such as Radio Majaguabo and CMKD, CMDH, and CMKT, ultimately establishing himself at the renowned CMKC Radio Revolución.
In 1968, he joined the newly established Tele Rebelde channel in Santiago, serving as both actor and broadcaster.
Tele Rebelde was the first Cuban TV channel to broadcast from outside Havana, and Alea Casadeval was integral to its early history.
Influence as an Educator
Alea Casadeval's impact as a mentor was profound, guiding 17 generations of broadcasters in applied linguistics, making him a cornerstone of radio education in eastern Cuba.
In recognition of his contributions, the UNEAC awarded him the Heredia Plaque in a ceremony in Santiago de Cuba on Broadcasters' Day.
During the event, Alea Casadeval remarked, "The greatest satisfaction for a broadcaster is to help new voices keep alive the tradition of Cuban radio and television, because broadcasting is also a commitment to culture and the people."
Gerardo Hourdayer, presiding over the ceremony, emphasized that the accolade was "a tribute to the profession and a call to young journalism students to learn from those who have dedicated their lives to the art of the spoken word."
The Enduring Impact of a Legendary Voice
CMKC highlighted in their announcement that "at 86, Ángel Miguel Alea Casadeval leaves an irreplaceable gap in the Cuban radio landscape" and that "his example, wisdom, and distinctive voice will endure in the memory and hearts of those who had the privilege to know and learn from him."
His death adds to a series of losses that have affected Cuban radio in recent months.
In May 2025, Noel Pérez Batista, also from CMKC, passed away at 93. In September of that year, René Luis Romero Oramas, a notable voice of Radio Reloj, died.
In November, Lilia Rosa López, a broadcaster from Radio Habana Cuba, passed away at 92. In May 2026, Santiago Ramírez Frías, with more than five decades in Cuban radio, died.
"The broadcasting community and the Radio System in Santiago de Cuba are in mourning," concluded CMKC Radio Revolución in their statement.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ángel Miguel Alea Casadeval
Who was Ángel Miguel Alea Casadeval?
Ángel Miguel Alea Casadeval was a renowned broadcaster and educator in Cuba, known for his contributions to radio and his mentorship in applied linguistics.
What was Alea Casadeval's contribution to Cuban broadcasting?
He played a pivotal role in developing broadcasting talent in Cuba, guiding many generations of broadcasters and leaving a lasting impact on the field.
How did the radio community in Cuba react to his passing?
The radio community in Cuba expressed deep sorrow, acknowledging the irreplaceable void left by his passing and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.