Cuban actor and comedian Luis Silva, well-known for his character Pánfilo in the show "Vivir del Cuento," expressed heartfelt sorrow on Monday over the passing of actress Paula Alí. Alí, a beloved figure in Cuban theater, passed away at the age of 90 after a remarkable career spanning over six decades.
Silva shared a tribute on Instagram, featuring several photos of them together on the set of the popular comedy show, where they collaborated in numerous episodes.
"I deeply regret the news of the passing of the great Paula Alí. She worked until the very end, always so natural and charming. It was a delight to share scenes with her in many episodes of Vivir del Cuento. EDP," Silva wrote.
Paula Andrea Alí Rivera was born on January 26, 1936, in Candelaria, now part of the Artemisa province. She began her artistic journey in 1959 as a model and television extra.
Over the years, she became an essential presence for various generations of Cubans, starring in telenovelas like "Enamorada del Mar" (1989) and "Las Huérfanas de la Obrapía" (1999), as well as in ICAIC films, amassing over 30 movie credits.
In 2003, she earned the Best Actress Award at the Cartagena de Indias Festival for her role in "Por Nada," directed by Juan Carlos Cremata. Alí was especially cherished for her role as Dr. Rosa Matriz in the comedy "Punto G."
The Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) confirmed her passing on social media, describing her as "one of the most popular and beloved artists among the Cuban people." They highlighted her "endearing mark on comedy, a genre to which she contributed professionalism, naturalness, and charisma, making her a distinguished figure in the national artistic landscape."
Her death comes just three weeks after she was unanimously awarded the 2026 National Television Prize, the highest honor in Cuban television.
In August 2024, Alí was urgently hospitalized at the Institute of Cardiology in Havana, from which she recovered well. She celebrated her 90th birthday this January with a tribute on the national channel's program "Al Mediodía."
UNEAC concluded their statement with a phrase summarizing the gravity of her loss: "With Paula Alí, we lose an indispensable performer from the Cuban stage, whose work will remain in the emotional memory of our people and in the history of the country's performing and audiovisual arts."
Remembering Paula Alí's Legacy
Who was Paula Alí?
Paula Alí was a renowned Cuban actress with a career spanning more than 60 years. She was known for her roles in Cuban telenovelas and cinema, and for her beloved character in the comedy "Punto G."
What was Luis Silva's reaction to Paula Alí's death?
Luis Silva expressed deep sorrow at Paula Alí's passing, sharing a heartfelt tribute on Instagram where he reminisced about the pleasure of working with her on "Vivir del Cuento."
What awards did Paula Alí receive during her career?
In 2003, Paula Alí received the Best Actress Award at the Cartagena de Indias Festival for her role in "Por Nada." She was also awarded the National Television Prize in 2026.