The young Cuban MCarla (@mc_cellist) sparked an intense debate on TikTok after posting a video in which she criticizes the reality show El rancho de Destino. In her words, that kind of content "does not represent the Cuban people" and only helps to project a "vulgar and empty" image of Cubans to the world.
“It’s disgusting, and forgive my choice of words, but someone has to say it,” the young woman began, visibly upset. “Do you really think shows like El rancho de Destino represent a community? Personally, I feel that such programs contribute nothing positive. On the contrary, they continue to lower the image of Cubans, making it more vulgar and distancing us further from culture and art, further from the greatness that truly represents us.”
MCarla also shared a reflection on the type of content that is consumed and goes viral on social media: “Cubans are more than circus, shouting, and cheap controversy. It’s time to ask ourselves what we are consuming and applauding, because going viral is not synonymous with representing a people well.” Her words quickly resonated with thousands of users who appreciated her courage to voice what many think but few dare to express.
Reactions came swiftly. In less than two days, the video surpassed five thousand interactions and accumulated over a thousand comments. "Absolutely right, that's a lack of respect," wrote one user, while another added, "The blame lies with those who consume it, not those who create it." Dozens agreed that the program "denigrates" the image of Cubans and reinforces negative stereotypes to the world.
MCarla herself responded to several of those messages, reaffirming her stance. “I agree, but it comes out whether you want to consume it or not,” she wrote in reply to a follower. In another comment, she added: “It doesn't represent us, but those who are not Cuban may think that most of us are this way.” Many users celebrated her position as a necessary voice within a digital ecosystem saturated with controversy and superficiality.
The debate is growing on TikTok, where hundreds of Cubans insist that the true culture of the island isn't found in the noise or the scandal, but in art, education, and talent. "Finally, someone spoke the truth", wrote a commenter, summarizing the general sentiment of a community tired of seeing and applauding "the lowbrow."
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