Jorge Junior, the frontman of Los 4, expressed strong disapproval over the use of El Taiger's image in the music video for "Papita frita," a newly released collaboration featuring Lenier, Tekashi 6ix9ine, and Oniel Bebeshito. In a candid social media broadcast, where he emphasized their ongoing quest for "justice for El Taiger," Jorge Junior made his frustration known. Despite being preoccupied with legal matters, he couldn't overlook the incident. "I've been caught up with what's happening with my cousin, but thankfully, everything is legally progressing as it should," he stated.
He continued, "When someone passes, there are those who love you and mourn you, some who prepare for an inheritance, and others who try to take advantage. You have to be ready to deal with all these situations." He specifically addressed the inclusion of his cousin's image in the "Papita frita" video. "I recently called Lenier because we are on good terms, and I asked about the song they just released. They put my cousin's picture in the background. It's been less than a week since he passed. My cousin is still 'warm,' you understand? Everyone is quick to see what they can gain from it," he reflected.
Warning to the Video's Producers
Jorge Junior described this act as disrespectful: "Unintentionally, you are being disrespectful, brother, do you understand what I'm explaining?" He also issued a stark warning to one of the production's contributors: "Ferrante, who is in Cuba, my brother, our paths will cross again. I'm giving you these days while I'm in Miami to reconsider and remove it, because when I return to Cuba, I'm coming for you, so find the best. Find the best because all this anger inside of me and the revenge I couldn't have with my cousin, I'll take it out on you."
Clarification on Motives
Jorge Junior made it clear that he wasn't seeking to profit from his cousin's death: "I have my career, my life with Los 4. I had to pause Los 4 to deal with my cousin's situation." He added, "I don't need anything from my cousin. Everything will be done legally with lawyers and directed where it should legally go. What bothers me are the opportunists who think they know everything but know nothing." He concluded by asking his peers in the music industry to respect his cousin's memory: "I kindly ask that before making any decisions regarding José Manuel Carvajal, discuss it with me, and we'll talk it over. Let's not act rashly and cause misunderstandings or conflicts because I want peace, not division."
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Reactions swiftly surfaced, dividing followers of Jorge Junior and El Taiger between those who supported his statements and those who saw the use of the late artist's image as a tribute. "Jorge, not like that, because those in the video truly cared about him. Bebeshito and Lenier loved him, and if they did it, it wasn't to exploit anything but because that's what El Taiger would have wanted," said one. Others argued it was a tribute: "It was a homage from my point of view, knowing the song will trend worldwide." However, some agreed with Jorge Junior: "I can't believe they released a new song while we were still mourning El Taiger, supposed to be a friend. What a huge disrespect! Where's the empathy?"
Despite the controversy, the "Papita frita" video has garnered over 860,000 views on YouTube.