The controversial Cuban YouTuber, known as El Chicleee, recently posted a video on his Instagram profile offering an apology for a prank he pulled at a Revolutionary National Police (PNR) station in Havana. He stated, "I'm here to tell you that the police video cost me dearly. It was a prank that got out of hand. I owe a sincere apology to the PNR. Honestly, I have no issues with the government or politics. I don't get involved in those matters," expressing his regret over the incident.
The influencer, popular among the island's youth, emphasized, "My content isn't aimed at opposing any government or system here or anywhere else in the world. Don't mess with me, I'm not going to say El Chicleee," refusing to greet his followers with his signature phrase. Although El Chicleee had over 100,000 followers on Instagram as of Friday morning, his page was no longer available at the time of this report.
Details of El Chicleee's Prank on the PNR
El Chicleee, Cuba’s most controversial influencer, visited a PNR unit where he approached an officer and said, "I'm here to file a complaint; someone sucked my penis." The officer, taken aback, responded, "Oh, well!" He tried to lodge the complaint with another officer, but again, was ignored. "That's how useless the police are in this country. They did it (...) without my consent, and no one takes action because the prisoners remain locked up, and that's why the water doesn't come," he concluded.
The video garnered thousands of interactions. Apparently, Cuban authorities did not appreciate the joke and made their displeasure known to El Chicleee, although he chose not to elaborate on their response.
Who is El Chicleee?
Little information is available online about this young content creator who has gained fame on social media, particularly on Instagram. His unique and provocative style combines pranks, theatrical performances, and an androgynous image as he roams the streets of Havana. Sporting wigs, red contact lenses, tattoos, fake nails, and shaved eyebrows, his appearance has turned him into a cultural phenomenon.
He is a singer of a genre he calls "Hyperreparto," and his videos often feature interactions with passersby in public spaces. Not all his pranks are well-received. Some of his more controversial acts include touching strangers' heads, dancing like Michael Jackson at a bus stop, or shouting "gonorrhea" in the street. Performances in psychiatric hospitals and funeral homes have sparked controversy due to his brand of dark humor.
Despite the criticism, El Chicleee’s following continued to grow, showcasing his artistic side as a singer and actor, earning praise from his virtual community. His rendition of "Dead Flowers" by The Rolling Stones highlights his versatility as an artist beyond his distinctive humor style. While some label him "crazy," others are impressed by the wit behind some of his reflections, his command of English at times, and the quick use of Cuban double entendres. He is a figure that does not go unnoticed in Havana.
Understanding El Chicleee's Impact and Controversies
What was the impact of El Chicleee's prank on his social media presence?
Following the prank, El Chicleee's Instagram page, which had over 100,000 followers, became unavailable, indicating a significant impact on his social media presence.
How do Cuban authorities react to El Chicleee's pranks?
Cuban authorities did not appreciate El Chicleee's prank at the PNR station, and although he did not specify, it is clear they communicated their displeasure to him.
Why is El Chicleee considered a cultural phenomenon in Havana?
El Chicleee's unique style, which includes an androgynous image and provocative content, along with his theatrical performances, have turned him into a cultural phenomenon in Havana.