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Numerous figures from Cuban cinema, television, and theater have begun to share heartfelt messages following the death of actor Samuel Claxton at the age of 82 in Havana, after facing a prolonged and delicate health condition.
Through social media, friends, colleagues, and admirers expressed their sorrow and paid tribute to his memory.
Luis Silva, Pánfilo from the television comedy "Vivir del Cuento," shared a photo from the episode where Claxton was a guest on .
Andy Vázquez also dedicated some heartfelt words as a tribute.
"Rest in peace... after a recording for Vivir del Cuento, I had the pleasure of taking you home, amidst admiration, nerves, and frustration mixed with sorrow," he wrote.
"A sapingo like me giving a boost to a top-notch actor, listening to anecdotes and advice that I will never forget. I will never forget your smile the entire time. Thank you for that moment. Your audience will never forget you!" he emphasized.
From Miami, actor Erdwin Fernández expressed his sorrow for the distance that prevented him from being with Samuel in his final days.
"Samuel Claxton, my friend. To all my friends, believe me, the distance is something brutal; it's mostly about helplessness and sadness. Samuel Claxton, an incredible man, super cool and an excellent artist. Fly high, my friend, and rest in peace," he said.
Erdwin also thanked all the people who assisted his colleague, especially Libia Batista Mora, the casting director who, in recent months, led several charitable campaigns to support the artist who recently passed away.
Despite being one of the most beloved figures in the national artistic scene, Claxton lived in extreme vulnerability and without institutional support.
His last years were characterized by hardship and government neglect. This week, the platform Cubaactores requested help to obtain disposable diapers. Also, thanks to the efforts of Batista Mora, a wheelchair was arranged for him.
Samuel Claxton faced bladder cancer and a percutaneous nephrostomy, conditions that caused him severe physical limitations. Unable to climb stairs, he had to leave his home in Alamar. He relied on the care of his wife and the support of the community.
It was his admirers and kind-hearted individuals who came to his aid when his need for tubes and collection bags became public—essential supplies for his daily care that were not provided by any official institution.
Born in Camagüey in 1943, Claxton participated in over 60 film and theater productions.
He is especially remembered for his role as Mantilla in the iconic series "Su propia guerra," as well as for his appearances in films such as "La última cena," "En 3 y 2," and "Caravana." He also shone on theatrical stages with works like "Santa Camila de La Habana Vieja" and "María Antonia."
His case highlights the critical situation many Cuban artists face in their old age, lacking support from the Ministry of Culture or UNEAC. Online, the complaints were persistent. "The least that could be done is to ensure he has his probes and collector without needing to ask," wrote an indignant user.
His death not only leaves a void in the Cuban artistic scene but also reignites an urgent debate about the dignity and care of those who dedicated everything to the national culture.
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