Comedian Luis Silva recently shared a video on his social media, marking his first communication from the United States. The video featured a phone call with his close friend Chequera. During their witty exchange, Pánfilo confirmed what many had speculated: the cancellation of the Cuban TV show "Vivir del cuento" was due to political sensitivities.
"Forget about my house. I lost it; they took it away. You know that house was troublesome," Pánfilo remarked to Chequera, referring to the popular comedy show. While beloved by the public, the show often ruffled feathers among Cuba's upper echelons due to its critical portrayal of Cuban realities.
Silva humorously recounted waiting in line with his wife in Miami to get a driver's license, likening the experience to waiting at a "Oficoda," highlighting the bureaucratic challenges in the city. A recent photo of Silva and his wife Yary in a queue at a licensing office, shared by the anonymous social media profile "Un Martí To Durako," sparked rumors of their potential permanent relocation to the U.S.
Uncertain Future for "Vivir del cuento"
Although Cuban TV executives have not officially confirmed the cancellation, they have described the show as "on pause." Of the main characters, only Chequera remains active, regularly posting comedic videos online. Last October, a producer associated with the show told CubaNet that new episodes were not aired due to censorship issues. "There has been significant censorship in producing the latest episodes, causing considerable frustration among the team," the producer revealed.
The show has experienced a mass exodus of its stars. Andy Vázquez (Facundo) left in 2019, followed by Omar Franco (Ruperto) two years later. In 2023, Irela Bravo (Cachita) departed, and the previous year saw Marlon Pijuán (Isidoro), Wilber Gutiérrez (Chacón), and apparently Luis Silva (Pánfilo) move on as well.
Silva made his way to the United States last December. Although this isn't his first family trip, it's uncertain if they will return to Cuba as they have in the past.
FAQs on the Future of "Vivir del cuento" and Luis Silva
Why was "Vivir del cuento" canceled?
The show was reportedly canceled due to its critical portrayal of Cuban realities, which was not well received by the country's political leaders.
Is Luis Silva staying in the United States permanently?
While Luis Silva has traveled to the U.S. with his family before, it remains unclear whether his current stay will be permanent.
What happened to the other stars of "Vivir del cuento"?
Several stars have left the show over the years, including Andy Vázquez, Omar Franco, Irela Bravo, Marlon Pijuán, and Wilber Gutiérrez.