This past Sunday, Cuban actress Heydy González took to Facebook to share a heartfelt tribute to actor Jorge Losada, who passed away in Havana at the age of 92 after enduring a prolonged health struggle.
"Today, heaven welcomes a legend... but I say goodbye to someone even more special: my friend... and 'grandpa Losy' to my Gali," González began her message, highlighting the deep personal connection she shared with Losada beyond their professional collaborations.
González's post was filled with affection as she described Losada: "Jorge Losada, my dear old man... today you rest in peace after a long battle you fought with admirable strength. Life gave me the privilege not just to know you as an actor but to love you as a human being – one of a kind."
Residing in Miami since 2022 with her partner, singer Eddy Borges, and their daughter Galilea, González acknowledged the physical distance from the veteran actor but emphasized that their bond remained unbroken: "Despite the miles between us, I was always with you... and we both know it. True affection doesn't understand distance, and a heartfelt commitment never fails."
Known for her role as Hidroelia in popular Cuban comedy shows such as Vivir del Cuento, Punto G, and A otro con ese cuento, González highlighted the indelible mark Losada left on those who knew him: "You were intelligence, you were tenderness, you were sincere company. A soul that embraced without touching, taught without imposing, and left a mark without noise."
In closing her tribute, González expressed gratitude: "I hold on to your smile, your stories, your unique way of being... and above all, the honor of being part of your life. Today is not a goodbye... it's an eternal thank you. Rest in peace, my dear old man. I carry you with me... always."
Losada's passing was announced by his friend and colleague Luis Lacosta, artistic director at the Cuban Institute of Cinematographic Art and Industry (ICAIC), who had shared more than 65 years of friendship with him: "I have no words to express everything I wish to say; the friend, the elder brother has gone after being together for over 65 years. He will always be among us."
Losada was a prominent figure in Cuban television, theater, film, and radio, with a career that began in the 1950s at Radio Mambí and continued into 2023, when he appeared in the telenovela Renacer at age 90. He was a member of the Rita Montaner theater group and the Musical Theater of Havana, starred in films like Soy Cuba and Maluala, and won the UNEAC Best Actor Award in 1987 for the play El Caballero de Pogolotti.
Nevertheless, his later years were marred by institutional neglect. Just three weeks before his death, on March 15, 2026, Lacosta made an urgent plea for help: "There is no food to give him, no transportation to take him to the doctor, we have no money left, and we face many needs."
His situation became emblematic of the abandonment faced by veteran Cuban artists, figures celebrated in official speeches but who endure old age in dire conditions, relying on public solidarity to meet basic needs.
The Legacy of Jorge Losada and the Challenges for Veteran Cuban Artists
Who was Jorge Losada?
Jorge Losada was a renowned Cuban actor known for his work in television, theater, film, and radio. His career spanned from the 1950s until 2023, and he was celebrated for his roles in productions like Soy Cuba and Maluala.
What challenges do veteran Cuban artists face?
Veteran Cuban artists often face significant challenges, including financial hardships and lack of institutional support, which can lead to living in precarious conditions despite their contributions to culture and the arts.
How did Heydy González express her connection to Jorge Losada?
Heydy González expressed her connection to Jorge Losada through a heartfelt Facebook post, highlighting their deep friendship and the special bond they shared, transcending professional boundaries.