Cuban actor Jorge Martínez recently shared deeply personal stories about the health challenges he has faced throughout his life and the impact they've had on him. Speaking on the YouTube show "La familia cubana," Jorge revealed that he battled cancer for the second time two years ago. His first encounter with the disease was 12 years earlier when he overcame lung cancer. This time, the cancer targeted his throat, and two lymph nodes tested positive while he was in the middle of filming the soap opera "El derecho de soñar." Despite the challenges, he continued to film up to 14 scenes a day, asking makeup artists to conceal the wound on his neck.
"I was undergoing both chemotherapy and radiation therapy. I lost my sense of taste and my salivary glands. I lost everything. I spent almost a year consuming only liquids and soups, dropping to 42 kilos," he recounted.
Jorge explained the hardships he faced during his recovery, as he lived alone and had to manage everything despite his weakened state. Fortunately, a friend invited him to stay at her home in Italy, where he spent a year recuperating and is now in good health.
A Look Back at Controversy
During the interview, the renowned actor also reflected on a controversial incident from 2006 when he hosted "El Expreso," a musical show aired on Sunday nights by Cubavisión. Due to the show's popularity, it was proposed that he marry his girlfriend, a dancer from the cast, live on the program. However, the idea did not sit well with cultural authorities, despite the episode airing four days after it was recorded.
The ICRT released an official statement condemning the wedding as "unacceptable" and announced sanctions for those involved. Although the organization attempted to continue the program as if nothing happened, neither Jorge nor the director agreed, leading to the show's cancellation. Jorge's most bitter memory from the incident was the cowardice of the television music program directors, who failed to stand by the show.
"Today, none of those leaders are around, but I still am as an artist. The artist endures, meant for the people, while leaders come and go," he stated.
Overcoming Health Challenges to Pursue Passion
In 2018, Martínez appeared on the television show "Con dos que se quieran," hosted by Amaury Pérez, where he discussed how, after overcoming lung cancer, he participated in the filming of "Últimos días en La Habana" by Fernando Pérez. For the role, he had to lose 12 kilos in two months, a risky endeavor given his health condition.
Jorge confessed his addiction to smoking, which led to severe respiratory issues. "I smoked two packs a day. I couldn't go one or two hours without a cigarette, and it caused me to stop filming to cough," he recalled. After visiting an oncologist, a large tumor was discovered in his left lung, nearly six centimeters, and he was almost beyond hope.
Reflecting on his career, Martínez expressed a desire to have done more in cinema. "The reality of my country is harsh. Cuban cinema has always aimed to open people's eyes, serving as a whip with bells—and sometimes without," he emphasized.
Insights into Jorge Martínez's Health Struggles and Career
What health challenges has Jorge Martínez faced?
Jorge Martínez has battled cancer twice, first with lung cancer 12 years ago and more recently with throat cancer two years ago.
How did Jorge Martínez manage to continue working during his illness?
Despite undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy, Jorge continued filming with makeup artists helping to conceal his neck wound.
What controversy did Jorge Martínez face in 2006?
In 2006, Jorge faced backlash for a planned on-air wedding on his show "El Expreso," which led to the show's cancellation after criticism from cultural authorities.
What role did smoking play in Jorge Martínez's health issues?
Jorge's smoking habit, involving two packs a day, contributed to his respiratory problems and was a factor in his lung cancer diagnosis.