Iris Pérez, the wife of actor Omar Alí and a close relative of the late Paula Alí, expressed her gratitude on Monday for the overwhelming affection the family has received following the passing of the beloved Cuban actress at the age of 90.
From Havana, Pérez shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, accompanied by a black and white photo of the actress. She highlighted the deep connection the public always maintained with one of Cuba's most cherished television and theater icons.
"We know that the people loved her dearly, and her loss feels like that of a close family member. Her journey on earth was beautiful, and she left a great legacy of love. We thank God for sharing her with us. Thank you for all the love on behalf of her family and friends," Pérez wrote.
Iris Pérez is married to Omar Alí, Paula Alí's nephew, and in recent years, both shared not only family ties but also numerous moments connected to her artistic life.
The post received dozens of condolence messages from followers, colleagues, and admirers, who remembered the actress for her simplicity, charisma, and the warmth she conveyed over more than six decades on stage and screen.
Paula Alí's passing sparked a significant response both inside and outside Cuba's cultural world. One of the earliest tributes came from actor Luis Silva, known for his role as Pánfilo in "Vivir del Cuento," whose social media message moved thousands of followers.
The Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) also mourned her death, noting that she left "an especially endearing mark in comedy," thanks to the naturalness, professionalism, and charisma that characterized her extensive career.
Born on January 26, 1936, in Candelaria, now part of the Artemisa province, Paula Alí began her artistic journey in 1959, building a career spanning over six decades in Cuban television, theater, and film.
Her death occurred just three weeks after she was awarded the 2026 National Television Award, the highest honor in the field in Cuba, granted unanimously in recognition of a lifetime dedicated to the arts.
Earlier this year, the actress celebrated her 90th birthday on the show "Al Mediodía," surrounded by family, friends, and colleagues, including Iris Pérez and Omar Alí, in what turned out to be one of her final public appearances.
In her official farewell, UNEAC summarized the artist's legacy with a phrase widely shared since the news broke: "With Paula Alí's passing, an indispensable figure of the Cuban stage disappears, whose work will remain in the emotional memory of our people and in the history of the country's performing and audiovisual arts."
Legacy and Impact of Paula Alí
What contributions did Paula Alí make to Cuban arts?
Paula Alí contributed significantly to Cuban television, theater, and film over a career spanning more than 60 years. She was celebrated for her natural talent, professionalism, and charisma, leaving an indelible mark on comedy and the performing arts.
How did the Cuban public react to Paula Alí's passing?
The Cuban public reacted with an outpouring of love and condolences, remembering her for her warmth and charisma. Her death elicited responses from both fans and fellow artists, highlighting her impact on the cultural landscape.
What was Paula Alí's last major recognition before her passing?
Paula Alí received the National Television Award 2026, the highest honor in Cuban television, in recognition of her lifelong dedication to the arts. This award was a testament to her enduring legacy and influence.