Family, fellow artists, and friends gathered to bid farewell to beloved Cuban comedian José Téllez, affectionately known as "El Chico Bombón," who passed away at his home in Miami on January 16. The Caballero Rivero Funeral Home was filled with prominent figures from the Cuban artistic community in exile, who came on Wednesday to pay their respects.
Actress Aleanis Jáuregui, famously known as Cuqui la Mora, shared her memories with Univision journalist Javier Díaz, saying, "I always said he was quite the gentleman. Always courteous, always attentive." Meanwhile, Omar Franco reflected on Téllez's unique ability to leave a positive mark through his distinctive humor.
Ángel Díaz, known as Antolín el Pichón, expressed his admiration, stating, "He contributed something truly beautiful to Cuban comedy." Díaz had been working with Téllez on a project the day before his sudden passing. The comedian, who was found by friends at his residence, was 56 years old and is believed to have died of natural causes.
The news of his unexpected death has evoked an outpouring of grief from thousands. Entertainment figures like Antolín el Pichón, Javier Berridy, Los Pichy Boys, Carlos Otero, Luis Silva, and Ulises Toirac have taken to social media to honor Téllez's talent, humility, and infectious joy.
Born on August 13, 1968, in Havana, Téllez may have graduated in Industrial Mechanical Design in 1988, but his heart was always in comedy. He embarked on his artistic journey in 1989 with the comedy group Los Hepáticos, alongside Otto Ortiz, Omar Franco, and Carlos Vázquez, also known as "Riquimbili." Their performances at significant events solidified his presence in the Cuban comedy scene.
In the 1990s, Téllez was part of the group Posdata, and in 2001, he co-founded the duo Humor y Medio with actor Sergio Enrique Morlán. This initiative merged entertainment with social responsibility, performing in Cuba's most remote communities in collaboration with the National Group for the Prevention of HIV and STIs.
One of his most memorable roles was that of Yury in the film "A King in Havana" (2005), directed by Alexis Valdés. After relocating to South Florida in recent years, "El Chico Bombón" continued to entertain audiences in theaters and nightclubs. His impersonations and parodies of artists like Jorge Junior and El Micha gained immense popularity on social media.
FAQs about José Téllez and His Legacy
What was José Téllez's most notable contribution to comedy?
José Téllez left a lasting impact on Cuban comedy with his unique humor and ability to make people laugh. He was part of various comedy groups and played memorable roles that resonated with audiences.
How did José Téllez impact social issues through his work?
Through the duo Humor y Medio, José Téllez combined comedy with social advocacy, performing in remote communities and collaborating with the National Group for the Prevention of HIV and STIs in Cuba.