Cuban comedian Gustavito, whose real name is Geonel Martín Verales, famously known for his character on the TV show Sabadazo, has spoken out in support of Cuqui La Mora following the cancellation of two of her shows in the United States. He condemned the backlash against the performer due to her political views.
On Tuesday, Gustavito took to Facebook to voice his concerns about what he sees as a demonstration of intolerance among the Cuban exile community. He also expressed his worries for friends and family facing uncertain immigration statuses in the U.S.
“I CAN'T STAY SILENT TODAY,” he began his post, explaining his long-standing friendship with Cuqui La Mora, whose real name is Aleanis Jáuregui. He has known her since she was 17 and has witnessed her personal and artistic growth.
“I don’t need to agree with her opinions to respect her, nor will I turn my back on a friend of many years just because she thinks differently,” he stated.
Gustavito especially criticized those who celebrate a performer losing job opportunities due to their political stance, a behavior he deems contrary to the freedom many Cubans sought by emigrating.
“Did we flee Cuba to escape intolerance only to practice it here?” he questioned.
“We can disagree, debate, and even passionately argue. But to insult, humiliate, and rejoice over an artist losing work because of their political opinions seems profoundly unjust,” he remarked.
The comedian recalled facing professional consequences in Cuba due to his opinions, understanding the impact such situations have on those who rely on entertainment for their livelihood.
“I personally experienced the same thing back there. I know how it feels when they try to punish you professionally for your beliefs,” he affirmed.
He further questioned, “So why did we leave Cuba? To come here and do to others what was once done to us?”
Gustavito declared that on principle, he would not perform at a venue that canceled an artist solely for their political ideas.
“Because today it’s happening to Cuqui, but tomorrow it could happen to any of us,” he warned, urging greater solidarity among entertainment professionals, even if ideological differences exist.
In his post, he also addressed the plight of Cubans in the U.S. under the I-220A form. He revealed concerns for friends, fellow artists, and even his godson in such situations, fearing possible deportations.
He expressed unease over certain actions by ICE agents, likening them to intimidation tactics seen in Latin American countries under dictatorial regimes.
However, he emphasized the need for U.S. border protection, insisting it must be done while respecting individuals' dignity and rights.
“That is why I believe in protecting our borders, but it must be done while respecting people's dignity and rights,” he wrote.
Gustavito stressed that the distress felt by families facing deportation should not translate into hostility toward those with differing political views.
He vowed to continue supporting Cuqui La Mora and his loved ones affected by immigration uncertainty.
“I won't abandon Cuqui for thinking differently, nor will I abandon my friends and my godson, who now live in fear due to their immigration status,” he emphasized.
These comments come after the cancellation of Cuqui La Mora's performance by La Cubanita restaurant in Odessa, Texas, which asserted it was a business decision based on the show's viability, not her political preferences.
Similarly, Expo Cubaneo Arizona 2026 organizers canceled her November 7 show in Phoenix without providing a public explanation.
The timing coincided with Cuqui expressing her excitement about voting for the first time as a U.S. citizen and her open support for the Republican Party, sparking online debates. However, neither organizer confirmed political motives, with the Texas restaurant explicitly denying it.
Cuqui stated in an interview with Alex Otaola that show organizers had received threats before canceling her appearances. She defended her right to express her political preferences freely and refused to be deterred by the controversy.
Gustavito isn't the only artist standing by her. Cuban actor and comedian Vladimir Escudero released a video condemning political intolerance and defending Cuqui's right to express her preferences without it impacting her career.
Escudero admitted not knowing all the cancellation details but felt that if they were solely due to her political stance, it warranted serious reflection.
Cuqui announced upcoming performances on November 28 at Café Cantante Restaurante in Miami with Los 3 de La Habana and on November 21 in Michigan.
Understanding the Controversy Surrounding Cuqui La Mora
Why were Cuqui La Mora's shows canceled in the US?
Cuqui La Mora's performances were canceled by venues citing business decisions and show viability, although some speculate political reasons due to her support for the Republican Party.
How did comedian Gustavito react to the cancellations?
Gustavito defended Cuqui La Mora, criticizing the intolerance within the exile community and stressing the importance of respecting different political views without professional repercussions.
What concerns does Gustavito have about immigration issues?
Gustavito expressed worries about friends and family with uncertain immigration statuses in the U.S., fearing deportation and criticizing certain ICE actions reminiscent of intimidation tactics.