It has been a year since the death of José El Enano: "It still hurts a lot, my friend."



A year ago, José El Enano, a beloved Cuban comedian, passed away. His legacy and talent are remembered by colleagues and fans through tributes and heartfelt messages on the anniversary of his passing.

José Téllez, "The Sweet Kid"Photo © José Téllez, "El Chico Bombón" / Instagram

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On January 15th, it marks one year since the death of the popular Cuban comedian José Ricardo Téllez Fernández, artistically known as “José El Enano” or “El Chico Bombón,” one of the most beloved figures in Cuban humor both on the island and abroad.

Téllez was found dead on January 15, 2025, in his apartment in Miami, as confirmed at the time by close friends and colleagues from the artistic community. He was 56 years old.

The news caused deep shock among his followers and the Cuban entertainment community, which flooded social media with messages of sorrow and fond memories.

Among the artists who expressed their sorrow were Andy Vázquez, Luis Silva (“Pánfilo”), and Alexis Valdés, who remembered José as a loyal friend and a highly talented comedian. “His humor was unique, authentic, and deeply Cuban,” Valdés wrote at the time on his social media.

This first anniversary has brought new tributes and messages of affection. The comedian Cuquita La Mora shared an emotional post in which she remembered the late artist:

"Today marks a year since your departure, and it still hurts a lot, my friend. A big hug wherever you are. I will never forget you. La Mostra, as you always used to say. Rest in peace," he wrote alongside a photo of José El Enano.

Born in Havana on August 13, 1968, José Téllez graduated in Industrial Mechanical Design in 1988, although he soon discovered that his true calling was in art.

His career began with the humor group Los Hepáticos (1989–1995), continued with Posdata (1995–2000), and later with the duo Humor y Medio (2001–2008), with whom he achieved great popularity.

In addition to his work in Cuban theater and television, Téllez also ventured into cinema, participating in the film A King in Havana, directed by Alexis Valdés.

Once settled in Florida, he appeared in theaters, nightclubs, and television shows like El Gordo y La Flaca, where he was remembered for his charisma and versatility.

A year after his passing, the legacy of José El Enano remains alive in the memories of his audience and fellow performers, who continue to remember him as one of the great figures of contemporary Cuban humor.

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Yare Grau

Originally from Cuba, but living in Spain. I studied Social Communication at the University of Havana and later graduated in Audiovisual Communication from the University of Valencia. I am currently part of the CiberCuba team as an editor in the Entertainment section.