The Cuban radio community is in mourning following the passing of esteemed broadcaster and director Jorge Luis Michelena, who died on Wednesday in Havana at the age of 50. Michelena was a prominent figure at Radio Metropolitana, a station in the capital where he led the popular program "Mezcla" for 27 years.
"Our home radio station is grieving. Our Jorge Luis Michelena, director of the programs 'Mezcla' and 'De Noche en La Habana,' passed away on the night of February 26, 2025. An exceptional program director, scriptwriter, broadcaster, and president of our station's artistic council," the station expressed in a heartfelt message on platform X.
Radio Jaruco in Mayabeque, where Michelena began his career in 1991, also expressed sorrow at the loss of this multifaceted professional. "You will always be with us, in your constructive and critical view of reality, your insightful words that made us think, and your love for La Condal. May you rest in peace, friend," the message conveyed.
Guillermo Rivero de la Rosa, a fellow radio and television host, paid tribute to his colleague and friend. "This is how I want to remember you... Thank you for so many years of teaching and professionalism, 27 years in the same program, 'Mezcla.' So many stories, so much joy, so many recognitions... Fly high, my brother Jorge Luis Michelena, the heavens await you so you can watch over us from there," he wrote.
Photos shared on social media suggested that Michelena had been quite ill for some time, as he appeared very thin, gaunt, and had lost his hair. In his last posted photo, he is seen with his mother, accompanied by the caption, "Nothing like when mom is with you."
On January 25, Michelena celebrated his 50th birthday on the Cubavisión program "Mediodía en TV," where his colleagues honored him. "You don't turn 50 every day! And when you spend 27 of those years in the halls of a station like Radio Metropolitana, which welcomed me thanks to Cari Rojas, Zamira Hernández Juárez, Yosbel Rodríguez Suarez, Guille Rivero de la Rosa, who trusted me and placed in my hands the most listened-to program in their lineup, time flies by unnoticed," he gratefully posted on Facebook.
FAQs about Jorge Luis Michelena's Legacy
What programs did Jorge Luis Michelena direct?
Jorge Luis Michelena was the director of popular radio programs such as "Mezcla" and "De Noche en La Habana" at Radio Metropolitana.
Where did Jorge Luis Michelena begin his career?
He started his career at Radio Jaruco in Mayabeque in 1991.
How did Michelena's colleagues remember him?
His colleagues remembered him for his professionalism, insightful perspectives, and his significant contribution to Cuban radio.