Renowned for her versatility, particularly in comedy, Cuban actress Gelliset Valdés has brought to life characters like Felipa, Yumisisleydis, Tonita, Beruco, Elda, Biana, Fofi, and Pura. Today, she continues to delight audiences with her humor while making a name for herself as a charming influencer in Miami.
Challenges of Relocating to the United States
The journey to the U.S. was far from smooth for Valdés, despite having visited before. Her expression changes slightly as she recalls the arduous process, though she speaks with clarity and confidence. "I had a five-year visa, which expired in January 2020. My husband, Delso Aquino, a television director, and I had planned to emigrate permanently. We frequently visited but hadn't settled because our son was still in Cuba and we couldn't bring him over," she explains.
After securing a Spanish passport for her son through his father, Valdés organized a group tour including Aquino, Yerlín Pérez, El negro Pega Con Tó, Diego (Cortico), and herself. Securing Cuban passports was a struggle, and they had to travel to the American embassy in the Dominican Republic. Their departure on November 16, 2021, was met with a visa denial due to their work with a state-run TV station in Cuba.
A Perilous Journey Through Mexico
Valdés recounts the dramatic escape: "Determined not to return to Cuba, we headed to Mexico, flying from Santo Domingo to Cancún. There, a friend awaited us, and while Yerlín stayed in Cancún, the rest of us proceeded to the border. The ordeal was like a scene from a Saturday movie: at the Mexicali airport, we faced scrutiny, but thanks to a last-minute return ticket from our friend, we boarded the plane."
In Mexicali, Valdés describes the harrowing journey with a coyote, led by a woman she dubbed "The Matron." Crossing the border involved nerve-wracking moments, including paying off police officers and navigating through dangerous territory.
The Final Steps to Freedom
Upon reaching American soil, Valdés felt a sense of relief, especially thinking of her son. "We were taken to separate camps for men and women, and I spent three days apart from Aquino. Each day was a nerve-wracking wait for our names to be called. When it finally happened, I was emotional, especially during the humiliating experience of being handcuffed," she recalls.
Her faith was tested, but a comforting encounter with a woman dressed in yellow, whom Valdés associated with the Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre, provided solace. Eventually, she was transported to Texas and reunited with her family.
From Accidental Actress to Rising Star
Valdés's path to acting was unplanned. Growing up in a remote area, she initially aspired to be a teacher. Her journey took a turn when she moved to Havana, attended theater classes, and discovered her passion for acting.
Her early work in Cuban television centered around comedy, though she also has a deep appreciation for dramatic roles. "I've been typecast in comedy, but I love the challenge of drama. In Cuba, I starred in three dramatic telefilms with Aquino. Both genres demand genuine emotion, and I respect them equally," she says.
A Beloved Comedienne and Influencer
Valdés's comedic talents shone in shows like "Deja que yo te cuente," where she created memorable characters. Her work has left a lasting impression on audiences, and she continues to entertain through her presence on social media, boasting 137,000 followers on Instagram.
The actress maintains a positive relationship with her son's father, Nelson Gudín. "Having Nelson here has been a blessing. He helped me and Aquino find work quickly in the industry, which is invaluable. His support is something I'll forever be grateful for," Valdés shares.
Reflections on Cuba
Despite her success, Valdés has no plans to return to Cuba. "I left behind family and friends, but as long as the current regime remains, I have no desire to go back," she states. The political climate and deteriorating conditions in Cuba are a source of deep pain for her.
Valdés hopes for change, wishing the Cuban leaders would allow the country to thrive. "We were misled about the U.S., which has provided far more support than Cuba ever did. My dream is for my loved ones to experience a better life outside of Cuba, away from its hardships."