Armando Tomey's experience in Cuban television allows him to assert that Cuba was not only a pioneer in television in Latin America and the world but also a reference point for countries like Venezuela and Colombia.
In a recent interview for the podcast "Destino Tolk," the Camagüey actor recalled that the rise of Cuban television had been in decline since the arrival of communism.
In Miami, Cubans did not invest in television, and it became a business that was almost entirely dominated by Mexicans.
"Cuba, which was the mecca of television in Latin America, because Cuba founded soap operas, was the first to have television in the American hemisphere, had television before Spain, and was a pioneer in television and soap operas—what happened is that communism came and everything fell apart."
"The owners of television in Cuba emigrated; they went to Venezuela and Colombia, where they founded television stations and taught those people how to create television. And let no one get upset, because Cubans taught Venezuelans and Colombians how to make television," the artist stated.
With this knowledge, Tomey was clear upon arriving in Miami that his motivations were not to succeed in television as an actor, but he always had the hope of giving it a try, something he has been able to realize in the past year thanks to the platform Pronyr TV, which has brought together many Cuban artists.
In Cuba, he was seen as a survivor who balanced acting with various business ventures. Despite being opposed to communism and the regime on the island, and experiencing firsthand the repercussions of a poorly paid profession, he acknowledges that his main motivation for leaving the country was to be with his son.
Frequently asked questions about the Cuban influence on Latin American television and the career of Armando Tomey
What was Cuba's role in the development of television in Latin America?
Cuba was a pioneer in television in Latin America, being the first country in the Americas to have television and to establish soap operas. Its influence was significant, teaching countries like Venezuela and Colombia how to develop their television industries.
Why did Armando Tomey decide to emigrate from Cuba?
Although Armando Tomey is opposed to communism and the regime on the island, his main motivation for leaving Cuba was to follow his son. Abroad, he has pursued new opportunities in acting and business, particularly in Miami.
How has the socialist regime influenced Cuban television according to Armando Tomey?
Armando Tomey states that the rise of Cuban television began to decline with the advent of communism. According to him, many television owners emigrated to other countries, such as Venezuela and Colombia, contributing to the development of television in those nations.
What has Armando Tomey achieved in his career in Miami?
In Miami, Armando Tomey has successfully ventured into television and entertainment thanks to platforms like Pronyr TV, which have brought together many Cuban artists. Although his motivation was not to succeed as an actor, he has found opportunities to continue developing his career.
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