Ana de Armas, the renowned Cuban actress, is facing a barrage of criticism on social media following the promotion of her latest film, "Ballerina," on its official Instagram page. What was intended as a marketing campaign swiftly morphed into a platform for attacks against the actress, predominantly from the Cuban community. They accuse her of "political indifference" and being a "complicit of the dictatorship" due to her relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta, the stepson of Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel.
In an attempt to manage the backlash caused by her association with Anido Cuesta, de Armas restricted comments on her Instagram profile. The only post allowing comments is one that highlights her partnership with Louis Vuitton. This move by the daughter-in-law of Lis Cuesta Peraza, an ardent supporter of the Cuban regime, was an effort to quell the wave of criticism stemming from her relationship with Anido Cuesta and their romantic outings in Madrid, as reported by ¡HOLA! magazine. The outings also featured prominent lawyers from Cuba's dictatorial regime.
Social Media Backlash
The "Ballerina" post, which announced the cast's participation in the Comic-Con Experience in Brazil, was flooded with negative comments. Many users criticized Ana de Armas for her apparent detachment from Cuba’s ongoing crisis and her association with Anido Cuesta.
One Instagram user exclaimed, "Down with the dictatorship! You are an accomplice to the hell that Cubans endure, even though your own brother was a victim." Another follower expressed disappointment, saying, "You betrayed your people, Ana... No wonder you never seized the chance to call for freedom in your country... But the saddest part is overlooking your brother, who had to flee from this disgusting dictatorship... May God forgive you, as I believe your people no longer do."
Cuban activist and doctor, Lucio Enríquez Nodarse, commented, "Down with the Cuban dictatorship of which you are an accomplice! All your money cannot cleanse the sadness in your soul!" Another social media user criticized, "It’s not a movie; it’s the life story of her boyfriend's family. A communist tale."
The Controversial Relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta
The anger stems from Ana de Armas's romantic involvement with Manuel Anido Cuesta, the stepson of Díaz-Canel and an advisor to his much-criticized government. The relationship was confirmed after the couple was photographed shopping and strolling affectionately in Madrid. Anido, the son of Lis Cuesta—Díaz-Canel’s wife—has been by the leader's side at various diplomatic events, including trips to the Vatican and the United Arab Emirates. His close ties to Cuba's political power make him a controversial figure among exiled Cubans and regime critics.
The images of the couple in Madrid's luxury stores sparked further outrage, highlighting the stark contrast between their lifestyle and Cuba's dire economic conditions, characterized by food shortages and frequent blackouts. Adding to the public's discontent was Ana de Armas's social media post flaunting Louis Vuitton gifts, seen as a provocation and insensitivity toward Cuba's plight.
With Ana de Armas's social media barriers in place, the "Ballerina" Instagram account became a forum for expressing dissatisfaction. "She mocks the Cuban people. How low must one stoop to ridicule your own people while there are blackouts and shortages on the island?" commented a Cuban user.
Media Silence and Public Reaction
As of now, neither Ana de Armas nor Manuel Anido Cuesta has made any public statements regarding their relationship or the uproar it has caused online. The actress, known for safeguarding her private life, has maintained silence across her digital platforms since the romance was unveiled. However, her discretion has not dampened the scandal.
The relationship between De Armas and Anido Cuesta has become emblematic of what many see as a lack of awareness toward the humanitarian crisis in Cuba. She is now viewed by some as a "regime accomplice," according to numerous social media posts and reports from independent Cuban media outlets. The controversy has ignited a public discourse on the role of public figures in political matters and their social responsibility, particularly when linked to authoritarian regimes.
With "Ballerina" still months away from release, it remains to be seen whether Ana de Armas will weather this media storm or if her public image will continue to suffer in the eyes of discontented Cubans.
Impact of Ana de Armas's Relationship on Public Perception
Why is Ana de Armas receiving criticism from the Cuban community?
Ana de Armas is facing criticism due to her relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta, the stepson of Cuban leader Miguel Díaz-Canel, which some perceive as aligning her with the Cuban regime.
How did Ana de Armas respond to the backlash on social media?
In response to the backlash, Ana de Armas restricted comments on her Instagram, allowing them only on a post promoting her collaboration with Louis Vuitton.
What sparked the social media outrage against Ana de Armas?
The outrage was sparked by her relationship with Manuel Anido Cuesta and the perceived insensitivity of flaunting luxury gifts amid Cuba's economic hardships.