In Cuba, a unique breed of comedians emerged, though few remain today—actors molded on stage, shining in a television landscape devoid of humor and entertainment shows. Our interviewee, Leonardo Santiesteban, has embodied numerous personas. He's been Pepitín, an adventurous and inquisitive child, and later, Maraca, an elderly gentleman inspired by his friend Belisario, who advised him that his hometown of Holguín was too small for his ambitions. Subsequently, he introduced Fofi, a flamboyant makeup artist by trade. Known for his satire, Santiesteban masterfully mimics complex characters and inarticulate former presidents. I admire his indifference to public opinion and his ability to transform tears into laughter, yet today, he offers us not laughter, but confessions!
Leo, what was your childhood like, and what did you enjoy playing? My childhood in Holguín was filled with running around, knocking on neighbors' doors, playing hide and seek, and dressing as a woman to capture attention. Though my upbringing was humble, the art of making people laugh found me 53 years ago, allowing me to swap trauma for humor of any shade.
How did you leave Cuba and when did you arrive in the United States? I left Cuba for countless reasons we all know. I was just one of many Cubans living there. After 83 trips to Mexico to buy clothes and goods to survive on the island, I decided to leave from there, parting with my family and beloved homeland, which is slowly dying. I deeply love my country and hope to return one day to a place where everyone can live as human beings. I entered this great nation through Texas on November 23, 2022.
What are you currently doing? I'm working in my passion and what I excel at. I'm content and at peace. Among other roles, I'm part of Univista TV's series "Los hijos de Putin," portraying Raúl Castro. I'm also involved in the comedy show "La Habana en Hialeah" with Gelliset Valdés, Irela Bravo, Omar Franco, and Yasbell Rodríguez.
Why do you use the phrase "I'll leave you, I'm in a hurry" in "Los Hijos de Putin" as Raúl Castro? In Cuba, I would softly mimic Raúl's voice, but here, with the right costume and makeup, I can fully embody the character. Raúl would always say, "I'll leave you, I'm in a hurry." He disliked lengthy speeches, preferring quick exits. This incorporation has proven effective, as humor and satire, especially involving such figures, are generally well-received.
What's the secret to making each character distinct? How do you effortlessly transition between them? The secret lies in being an actor. Without that foundation, it's difficult to achieve. I strive to make them notably different for richer storytelling, whether they're used for a promotion or a simple comedic sketch. Each character is like family to me, cared for like a hen with her chicks. They work for me, and I for them.
Why did you decide to leave Cuba, and when did you make it a reality? The time came to leave when humor no longer provided a living, when I was forced to sell minced meat illegally to survive, and when I couldn't afford a simple candy for my daughter. One day, she said, "Dad, go so you can send me things," and that, Julita, was an order. In that moment, I realized it was time to go, departing without a physical goodbye to my family in Holguín.
What did leaving your family in Cuba mean to you? Leaving Cuba meant leaving behind my history, my laughter, but also my tears. Comedians don't cry in front of others, but we do. We are sensitive, and most of us are good-hearted. It's a gift or a bundle of emotions... hahaha. That's where it comes from: we are artists!
What are your thoughts on the current situation in Cuba? Cuba needs change, many changes! But change must be fundamental, requiring years because we've been entrenched in bad habits and lies for so long. These are ingrained in our blood. The generation from 40 years ago is vastly different from today's, and the government resists change. It's a country where people dance with teary eyes, hoping to leave, as we did. It's practically their only hope.
Do you believe there's a solution to Cuba's problems? Cuba has no cure; it has politicians who lack for nothing. They're fine, unlike those who actually work.
What message do you have for the Cuban people, who now lack even a comedy program on National Television? What do Maraca, Pepitín, Fofi, or Leonardo Santiesteban want to say? On behalf of all comedians and Cubans who've left, I apologize because I know we're missed. I hear it daily on social media, and it genuinely saddens me. I ask for understanding. They will follow if God and the politicians allow, though ideally, it would be the leaders, the ones with big bellies and rosy faces, who leave—the ones who don't struggle and never lose power.
The Cuban comedian found fulfillment last December when he welcomed his teenage daughter to Miami, a moment celebrated by many of his colleagues, including Cuqui la Mora, Andy Vázquez, Yerlín Pérez, and Gelliset Valdés.
Insights into Leonardo Santiesteban's Journey
How did Leonardo Santiesteban start his comedic career?
Leonardo's comedic journey began in his childhood in Holguín, where he used humor to transform personal hardships into laughter, a talent that found him more than five decades ago.
What challenges did Leonardo face in Cuba?
In Cuba, Leonardo struggled to make a living from comedy, resorting to illegal resale of goods for survival and faced limitations in providing for his daughter, prompting his decision to leave.
Why is Leonardo's portrayal of Raúl Castro popular?
Leonardo's portrayal of Raúl Castro resonates due to its accurate mimicry, humor, and satire, capturing the essence of the character, making it a hit with audiences.
What are Leonardo's views on Cuba's political situation?
Leonardo believes Cuba needs profound changes, criticizing the entrenched habits and lies perpetuated by the current political regime, which resists evolution.