The Cuban actor Arnold Yoandry Valiente, known for his role in the Cuban Television drama series sponsored by the Ministry of the Interior (MININT), Tras La Huella, announced on social media that he has arrived in the United States. “Seven months and 28 days, seven planes, but I made it,” he summarized his journey to the U.S., where he was welcomed with the traditional balloons featuring the American flag.
Journey from Cuba to the United States
Arnold's departure from Cuba took place in January of this year, following the well-known "Route of the Volcanoes," a term coined by Cubans for the arduous trek through Central America. “It’s incredible that even at the last moment in the airport, your mind questions if it’s the right decision. A torrent of thoughts makes you rethink everything until the very last instant,” the young actor reflected on his Facebook profile.
During his time in Mexico, he worked in a restaurant, an experience he did not overlook. “Grateful to be with compatriots,” he noted, hinting at a Cuban-run business in Mexico.
Controversy with 'Tras La Huella'
In 2022, Arnold publicly denounced on social media the lack of payment after filming several episodes of Tras La Huella. Following this and a publication by CiberCuba, he confirmed that he was expelled from the Instituto Cubano de Radio y Televisión (ICRT), a government-controlled body. “I hope MININT sees this photo after the damage they caused me,” he remarked.
“I’m not usually one for this... but given that one of the three episodes of TRAS LA HUELLA where I’m supposed to appear is coming out next week, I neither know nor care!!! (...) It’s been almost two months since the recording and I still haven’t been paid. Worse, when I ask fellow actors if this is NORMAL, they tell me that RTV owes them money since 2019,” the actor wrote on his Facebook account at the time.
The police drama series itself has not escaped the migratory exodus that plagues the island. In recent years, several actors who have starred in the show have left the country permanently or spend extended periods abroad.
Arnold Yoandry Valiente's Journey and Controversy
In this section, we address some frequently asked questions about Arnold Yoandry Valiente's journey to the United States and his controversy with 'Tras La Huella' and the ICRT.
Why did Arnold Yoandry Valiente leave Cuba?
Arnold Yoandry Valiente left Cuba due to dissatisfaction and lack of payment for his work on 'Tras La Huella,' as well as broader issues with the Cuban government and the ICRT.
What is the "Route of the Volcanoes"?
The "Route of the Volcanoes" is a term used by Cubans to describe the challenging journey through Central America, often undertaken by those seeking to migrate to the United States.
How did Arnold Yoandry Valiente support himself in Mexico?
While in Mexico, Arnold worked in a restaurant, which he mentioned as an experience of gratitude, especially for being with fellow Cubans.
What reaction did Arnold Yoandry Valiente have to his expulsion from ICRT?
Arnold expressed disappointment and frustration over his expulsion from ICRT, especially after he publicly denounced the lack of payment for his work on 'Tras La Huella.'