This past weekend, Ulises Toirac took to Facebook to share a nostalgic photograph of the original cast of "¿Jura decir la verdad?", a comedic show that left a lasting impact on Cuban audiences during the early 2000s. His post sparked a wave of fond memories among his followers.
The comedian humorously noted, "I'm still digging into the chest of memories since I can't pull experiences out of the fridge... The train cast. Jura decir la Verdad," accompanying the image that featured seven members of the initial team.
In the picture, fans can spot Toirac himself, the creator, director, and performer of the mischievous character Juan Marchante "Chivichana"; Hilario Peña, who played the Judge; Geonel Martín, the court's Secretary; Baudilio Espinosa, known as Professor Pepe Rillo; Aleanys Jáuregui, also known as Cuqui la Mora, a regular cast member and writer; Carmen Daysi Rodríguez, portraying Marieta Pozo Alegre; and Alexeis Rivera, as Amado Fiel del Toro.
From this group of seven, most have since left Cuba. Other notable cast members not pictured include Ángel Ramis as cabo Pantera, Zaharis Fernández as Lissette Tamaño del Busto, and Carlos Vázquez as Rikimbili, all of whom hold a special place in the hearts of Cuban viewers.
"¿Jura decir la verdad?" premiered on Cubavisión in 2001, airing for nearly eleven seasons until the late 2000s. Each 27 to 30-minute episode unfolded in a courtroom where Chivichana faced the judge and secretary, leading to a series of misunderstandings, puns, and absurd situations that cleverly reflected contemporary Cuban society.
The show was a deliberate homage to the classic radio series "La tremenda corte," crafted by Cástor Vispo in the 1940s, where Leopoldo Fernández famously portrayed the sly Trespatines. The name "Chivichana" itself was a direct nod to this predecessor. Toirac had previously experimented with this tribute in 1998 on the show "¿Y tú de qué te ríes?" before developing his own space with new characters.
The program extended its success to the stage, becoming one of Cuba's most popular comedic acts, especially at Havana's Teatro Karl Marx. In 2015, a show titled "¿Jura decir la verdad? – Relacioncidio" was announced in Miami, featuring Toirac, Hilario Peña, Aleanys Jáuregui, and Geonel Martín, followed by a theatrical version in October 2016 in the same city.
Toirac, who celebrated 45 years in the entertainment industry in March 2026, remains a beloved figure in Cuban comedy. Every post he shares that revisits those television days becomes a cherished gathering point for those who fondly remember the exploits of Chivichana.
Frequently Asked Questions about "¿Jura decir la verdad?"
What was "¿Jura decir la verdad?" about?
The show depicted humorous courtroom scenarios where the character Chivichana faced various charges, leading to comedic misunderstandings and reflections on Cuban society.
Who were the key cast members?
Key cast members included Ulises Toirac as Chivichana, Hilario Peña as the Judge, and Geonel Martín as the court's Secretary, among others.
How long did the show run?
"¿Jura decir la verdad?" aired from 2001 and ran for approximately eleven seasons until the late 2000s.
Did the show have any stage adaptations?
Yes, it became a popular stage show, with performances in Cuba and a notable adaptation in Miami in 2015.