Cuban comedian Karel Villanueva, better known as El Kereketé, recently arrived in the United States with his family. In a video shared on the social media platform Instagram, Villanueva detailed the arduous months leading up to their successful crossing of the U.S. southern border.
A Grueling Journey
"This is a video that wasn't easy to make. One minute of editing but a thousand tremors in the hand. A moment captured in photos but a thousand chilling memories. Tears, hunger, life-threatening risks, assaults, betrayal by many trusted individuals, sleepless nights, and fear of the unknown. Five months in a reel, but a lifetime to remember," the comedian wrote.
The clip shows a timeline from his departure from Cuba to various points along the Central American and Mexican route taken by many Cubans fleeing the island’s hardships.
"It's hard to beat someone who never gives up," he stated, expressing gratitude to his wife and children, as well as other family members and friends.
El Kereketé emphasized his longing for freedom for the island, concluding with, "Patria y Vida for our Cuban people."
Despite his short time in the United States, he has already joyfully announced his first performance in Miami.
Karel Villanueva gained recognition after winning the amateur comedy program Los amigos de Pepito, aired by Televisión Cubana in 2008. Mario Limonta and Aurora Basnuevo gave him the nickname El Kereketé, which remains his stage name to this day.
Karel Villanueva's Journey and Future Plans
Below are some frequently asked questions about Karel Villanueva's journey to the United States and his future plans in Miami.
How long did Karel Villanueva's journey to the United States take?
Karel Villanueva's journey to the United States took approximately six months.
What is Karel Villanueva's stage name?
His stage name is El Kereketé.
When did Karel Villanueva win Los amigos de Pepito?
Karel Villanueva won the amateur comedy program Los amigos de Pepito in 2008.
What are Karel Villanueva's plans now that he is in Miami?
Karel Villanueva has already announced his first performance in Miami, showing his excitement for his new journey in the United States.