The Cuban actress Aylín Mujica announced her return to the fifth season of Top Chef VIP on Telemundo, just two weeks after the death of her eldest son, Mauro Menéndez.
The return to the television show coincides with a particular emotional weight: the premiere of the program is scheduled for August 11, which is Mauro's birthday.
"This August 11, which happens to be my son's birthday, the fifth season of Top Chef VIP premieres on Telemundo. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you all," he noted.
"I have to keep being strong, I have to be strong," declared Mujica when announcing the airing of the reality. He explained that the messages of affection from his friends, family, and followers, as well as his work commitments, are what give meaning to his life at this moment.
The actress was emphatic in dismissing the idea that she plans to leave the show. "I am going through a tremendous grieving process after the loss of my son Mauro (...) I have to be an example for my children, for my family. (...) I have decided to return to filming Top Chef VIP," she stated.
The tragedy that shook the recording
Mauro Menéndez, DJ and music producer known artistically as MAAHEZ, passed away on July 17 in Barbados, at the age of 30, due to severe complications related to pneumonia.
Mujica learned of the tragedy while filming the reality show in Bogotá, Colombia, and immediately traveled to Barbados. The production of Top Chef VIP suspended filming for several days as a sign of respect.
On July 18, the actress broke her silence on social media with a brief yet heartbreaking message in which she stated: "My heart is devastated" and referred to her son as "a being filled with light, love, joy, and immense kindness, who left an indelible mark on all of us who had the privilege of knowing him."
A few days later, she confirmed her return to recording. Mujica publicly thanked the production for the warm welcome and respect with which they received her back in Colombia.
The father of Mauro, the Cuban musician Osamu Menéndez, was the one who publicly confirmed the death of his son on social media and shared his own grief over the loss.
The fifth season of Top Chef VIP premieres on Tuesday, August 11, at 7:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. CT on Telemundo, and will be available the following day on Peacock and the Telemundo app.
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