The death of Paula Alí, which occurred this Monday at the age of 90 in Havana, triggered an immediate wave of tributes on social media. Actors, comedians, and cultural institutions both inside and outside Cuba bid farewell to one of the most beloved figures of the national stage, remembering her not only for her talent but also for her human qualities.
One of the first to express his sorrow was actor Luis Silva, known for playing Pánfilo in Vivir del Cuento, who recalled the years spent alongside the actress.
"I'm very saddened by the news of the passing of the great Paula Alí. Working until the very last moment. Always so genuine and friendly. It was a pleasure to have shared scenes with her in many episodes of Vivir del Cuento," he wrote on Facebook.
From abroad, actress Laura de la Uz expressed her regret at not being able to say goodbye in person to someone she regarded as a role model in Cuban acting.
"Paula, dear Pauli, I can't believe it. Being far away and not being able to say goodbye feels really bad, very bad," she expressed on Instagram.
In his message, he also highlighted the artistic and human legacy of the performer.
"Thank you, Paula, thank you for all the legacy you left for future generations of Cuban actors. What a wealth of masterclasses in authenticity and humility."
The actress and comedian Heydy González reminisced about the years she shared the stage with Paula Alí on the show Punto G, where the veteran actress portrayed Dr. Rosa Matriz.
"There, alongside Jorge and Paula, we built a family that taught me the true meaning of camaraderie, respect for this profession, and love for art."
For González, Paula Alí was much more than a coworker.
"Paula had a very special light. She was one of those people who taught without realizing it, who inspired with her talent, her dedication, and her way of being in life."
The comedian Andy Vázquez also recalled his experience with her on Vivir del Cuento, where Paula Alí played the role of his character's mother, Facundo Correcto.
"Thank you, Paula, for sharing your talent with us. I had the honor of having you as the unforgettable mother of Facundo Correcto. Your memory will forever live in our hearts."
The actress Carmen Deisy Rodríguez shared a photograph alongside Paula Alí accompanied by a brief farewell:
"Fly high, my dear Paula. I will love you forever."
On its part, the platform CubaActores recalled that just a few days before her passing, they had spoken with the actress for the program Escena de Mujer.
"Beyond being a great actress, we got to know a woman who is warm, generous, and passionate about her profession," they noted.
The publication described Paula Alí as "an exceptional artist, possessing immense talent and a sensitivity that left a mark on theatre, television, and in the hearts of those who had the privilege of enjoying her work."
More than six decades on stage
Born in Candelaria, now part of the Artemisa province, Paula Alí developed an artistic career spanning over six decades in Cuban theater, film, and television. She participated in more than thirty film productions by ICAIC, appeared in numerous soap operas, and gained immense popularity among the public for her performances in humorous and dramatized programs.
In 2003, she received the Best Actress award at the Cartagena de Indias International Film Festival for her performance in Nada, directed by Juan Carlos Cremata.
Her last major recognition came just three weeks before her passing, when she was awarded the National Television Prize 2026, granted unanimously in acknowledgment of a career that influenced several generations of viewers.
Among the numerous farewell messages, the one from Iris Pérez, a close relative of the actress, also stood out, as she summed up the prevailing sentiment since the news broke.
"We know that this town has loved him very much and that it hurts them like a close family member."
Her words reflect the impact of the departure of an artist whose work transcended the stage to become a part of the emotional memory of millions of Cubans.
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