Luis Silva is not in jail, but Vivir del Cuento is "condemned."

Artists who still remain in Cuba have begun to focus more intently on their personal projects on social media.

Actor cubano Luis Silva caracterizado como Pánfilo (Imagen de referencia) © Instagram/Vivir del Cuento
Cuban actor Luis Silva portrayed as Pánfilo (Reference image)Photo © Instagram/Vivir del Cuento

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Actor Luis Silva is not detained nor has he traveled to the United States, as speculated on social media, according to a source close to the artist and linked to the production of the show "Vivir del cuento," who confirmed the information to CubaNet.

However, it has not been necessary for Silva to emigrate or encounter issues with the authorities to disappear from screens, as the actor has been "removed" from Cuban television due to censorship imposed on the program by executives of Televisión Cubana.

"There has been no confirmation regarding the cancellation of the program, but the television executives only offer justifications for not continuing with it. Meanwhile, the actors are waiting to record, but there are no answers," the source told CubaNet, requesting to remain anonymous to avoid retaliation.

"The truth is that the program was already becoming uncomfortable for the ruling class, as well as for Silva's character, but they wouldn't dare confront him directly because it would lead to another scandal," he added.

The same person stated that the program is "doomed" and that the television executives have not been straightforward with the production team. They also indicated that Luis Silva has indeed received "some subtle warnings."

On the other hand, the recent departure of actor Wilber Gutiérrez, known for portraying the character Chacón, has heightened tensions within the team responsible for the program.

Rumors about the alleged arrest of Silva, initially spread by content creators, have caused concern within the actor's family.

After the cancellation of the program, the actor has focused on other independent projects, particularly on social media.

In recent years, key figures in the industry such as Andy Vázquez, Omar Franco, Irela Bravo, and more recently Marlon Pijuán have left the country, which has weakened the production of the program.

"On television, they are trying to make the actors, especially Luis Silva, the ones who decide to end the program so that the responsibility doesn't fall on them [the management]. But it is very difficult for him to make such a decision," the producer added.

The falsehood that Silva was in prison or in the U.S. had already been anticipated on Monday by sports journalist Yasser Porto, who stated that after conducting a "thorough investigation" with those who could provide him with a truthful answer on the matter, he was informed that both rumors were untrue.

Although Porto suggested that the best way to quell the rumor was for the protagonist to address it directly, so far Luis Silva has not made any statements on his social media.

"Then, in my humble opinion, the best way to put a stop to everything is for the person themselves to clarify things one way or another. Or perhaps by simply seeing new posts or live streams that dispel the doubts that sometimes arise from other situations," Porto advised.

"But I insist, it is everyone's right. There are even those who are indifferent to these situations and let them slide for certain personal reasons. And that is also completely legitimate," he added.

Facebook Capture/D Porto Sports LLC

"Living off the story" under censorship

In October, another person connected to the production of the program stated to CubaNet that new episodes had not been released due to "censorship."

"There has been significant censorship in the production of the final episodes that were filmed, which has caused considerable discomfort among the group," the source stated at that time.

"That situation adds to the obstacles they have put in place to continue filming the show. It seems they want us to give up," he added.

Luis Silva himself advised an internet user around that time not to expect "good news" about the future of the program.

"Vivir del cuento," which has been on air for over 15 years, has become one of the most beloved shows on Cuban television in recent decades.

With a unique style, the program has utilized humor and satire to depict the everyday reality of the Cuban people, addressing issues such as bureaucracy, economic shortages, and political decisions that impact daily life.

The central character, Pánfilo Epifanio, has won the public's affection with his wit, charisma, and his critical yet entertaining approach to tackling the daily challenges in Cuba.

"Vivir del cuento" has not only managed to connect with the local audience but has also transcended borders, being followed by Cubans in exile and international viewers who see in its content a blend of sharp humor and social critique.

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