At 84 and 79 years old respectively, Félix Eduardo and Judith María became unexpected viral sensations when a home security camera caught them embracing during the catastrophic twin earthquakes that hit Venezuela on June 24, 2026. Their touching display of mutual protection captured hearts worldwide.
The couple sat down with Telemundo 51 to recount their experience, while their daughter, Alexandra Quiñones, discussed the family's emotional journey with Univision.
Living Through the Tremor
Félix Eduardo recalled the unsettling moment the tremor began, admitting, "We still feel a bit rushed." He had just gotten up to go to the kitchen when his wife called out to him. Realizing something was amiss, he hurried back without alarming her. Together, they quickly understood it was an earthquake.
"It was incredibly intense," he described. "There was no time to think, luckily we had each other, holding on for dear life as the earthquake raged."
As the ground shook and objects crashed around them, the couple clung to each other, trying to stay upright. "I thought this was the end for us," Félix confessed.
Judith admitted the emotional toll lingers: "I'm still on edge," she shared, noting the aftershocks continue to frighten her.
Following the quake, a neighbor and her husband visited to check on them. Félix recounted, "We sipped chamomile tea to calm our nerves," as they tried to recover from the ordeal.
The Viral Video Phenomenon
The viral video that captured the couple's tender embrace and Félix soothing his wife was explained with simplicity: "We've been married 58 years. We endure with love, through sadness and joy..."
Félix emphasized that their actions weren't extraordinary but natural: "It was a simple reaction when love is present."
He also sent a message to other couples: "Love and respect each other. Don't look for who's better or who's at fault; just cherish and embrace each other in both hard and happy times." He concluded with a heartfelt plea: "Never stop loving your spouse."
While most of their seven children have settled in countries like the United States, Argentina, and Spain, their eldest remains in Venezuela.
How the Video Spread
The footage existed thanks to the family's security cameras. Alexandra explained to Univision that the clip initially circulated privately among family:
"We shared it in our family chat. We saw the original video first-hand, but then it spread to friends and beyond, without us realizing the impact it would have."
Within hours, it had racked up millions of views across platforms like X, TikTok, and Instagram. Alexandra admitted the attention was unexpected:
"It's been a surprise for all of us. Especially for them, because they don't use social media; they lead a very private life."
A Daughter’s Perspective
Alexandra portrayed her father's demeanor not as an isolated gesture but as a consistent part of his life:
"My dad's actions are routine. He's a natural protector, always caring for my mom. They support each other daily."
She also highlighted the mutual effort: "In the video, you see her holding his arm as well. They're a great team."
Watching the footage stirred mixed emotions in Alexandra: "Seeing the video, I felt powerless not being there to support and protect them."
Regarding her parents' current state, she assured, "They're well-loved and well-cared for," with strong support from family, neighbors, and friends in Venezuela.
Due to health issues, Félix and Judith remain homebound, away from the community service they dedicated themselves to as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Alexandra offered them a new perspective:
"I told my dad that right now, unknowingly, they are serving as examples of love and kindness worldwide."
Félix Eduardo’s Message to the World
With seven children, 14 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, the couple never expected to become symbols of love amidst Venezuela's devastating tragedy. The twin earthquakes claimed at least 2,645 lives and injured over 12,666, marking the most destructive seismic event since 1900.
Félix Eduardo found a purpose in their newfound fame. As quoted by his daughter, he expressed:
"If this video and moment serve to unite couples, to make them realize the importance of caring, protecting, and loving each other always, then I'm satisfied."
Understanding the Viral Impact and Emotional Strength
How did Félix and Judith become viral sensations?
A home security camera captured them embracing during the Venezuelan earthquakes, and the video spread rapidly online, touching audiences globally.
What was Félix Eduardo's message to other couples?
He urged couples to love and respect each other, emphasizing the importance of embracing one another in both challenging and joyful times.
How did their daughter, Alexandra, react to the video?
Alexandra felt a mix of emotions, including powerlessness, as she couldn't physically support her parents during the earthquake.