Celina Fajardo, 74, and Filiberto Padrón, 78, two spirited Cubans, have once again taken social media by storm. This past Sunday, BBC World Service highlighted their story and their infectious dance moves, propelling them back into the spotlight.
Currently residing in Miami, the couple is famously known online as Ganas con Canas. They were featured in a video shared by BBC World Service that quickly garnered over 11,000 views in just a few hours.
The BBC introduced Celina and Filiberto as an internet sensation—a Cuban duo in their seventies who have captivated audiences worldwide through dance.
Behind their millions of followers lies a dance-inspired story. They first met in a Miami dance hall and have been married for 21 years.
Their online journey began by chance. An unknown onlooker recorded them dancing reggaeton at a Miami casino and posted the video online. The footage went viral, amassing millions of views.
Initially unfamiliar with digital platforms, Celina and Filiberto embraced their newfound fame and created their own accounts.
Their distinctive moniker, Ganas con Canas, emerged spontaneously. Celina recalls, "My husband said, 'Let's call it Ganas con Canas because I have the ganas (desire), but she has the canas (gray hair).'
Ironically, the reggaeton that launched them into stardom isn't even their preferred genre. Both favor salsa and merengue.
Since their debut, Ganas con Canas has amassed over two million followers, and the couple uses dance as a platform to defy age-related stereotypes.
"Age is just a number. I feel like I'm 20," Celina asserts to those who think they're "too old" to dance energetically.
Filiberto adds, "For me, dancing is something that makes me feel alive."
Their fame extends beyond social media. In 2018, they appeared on America's Got Talent, and in 2023, Osmani García shared a video of them dancing to "Summer Love" alongside Julian Marley, with the caption "real love never expires." The clip was also featured by CiberCuba.
In May 2024, they won over audiences on Spain's "Adivina qué hago" on Telecinco.
Most recently, in February 2026, they graced the stage of Premio Lo Nuestro for the second time, dancing during Maluma and Kany García's performance of "1+1." Their first appearance at the event saw them sharing the stage with Will Smith, Thalía, and DJ Khaled.
After years of dancing together and achieving unexpected fame, Filiberto offers simple advice to those who believe age or lack of experience are barriers:
"As I tell both elders and youth: don't say you can't dance; just have fun."
Frequently Asked Questions About Ganas con Canas
Who are Ganas con Canas?
Ganas con Canas is a Cuban dance duo from Miami, consisting of Celina Fajardo and Filiberto Padrón, known for their viral dance videos and large social media following.
How did Ganas con Canas become famous?
They became famous after a video of them dancing reggaeton at a Miami casino went viral, leading to millions of views and a large online following.
What is the meaning behind the name Ganas con Canas?
The name translates to "Desire with Gray Hairs," highlighting the couple's enthusiasm and the presence of gray hair, symbolizing their age and experience.