Acclaimed Cuban Actress Zelma Morales Dies at 72

Morales, known for her roles in popular Cuban telenovelas, passed away after relocating to Miami in 2018.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:28pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a rich, glittering fabric texture in deep red and gold hues, conceptually representing the glamour and impact of Zelma Morales' acting career.The vibrant, textured legacy of Cuban actress Zelma Morales, whose iconic performances captivated audiences for decades.Today in Miami

Zelma Morales, a celebrated Cuban actress known for her roles in popular television shows and theater productions, has died at the age of 72. Morales, who began her career in the 1980s, gained widespread recognition for her performances in telenovelas like 'Hoy es siempre todavía' and 'Tierra Brava.' After relocating to Miami in 2018 to be with her son, Morales remained a vocal advocate for freedom and human rights until her passing.

Why it matters

Zelma Morales was a revered figure in the Cuban artistic community, with a career spanning over four decades. Her death marks the loss of a talented and influential performer who left a lasting impact on Cuban television and theater. As an outspoken advocate for human rights even after leaving the island, Morales' passing is mourned by both her colleagues and the audiences who followed her work.

The details

Morales, born in Caibarién, Villa Clara, received her training at the National School of Art (ENA) and began her theatrical career in Havana. She was involved with several prominent Cuban theater groups, including the FAR Artistic Ensemble, the Bertolt Brecht Political Theater, and Teatro Mío. Her television debut came in 1984 with the series 'La frontera del deber,' followed by a breakout role in the 1987 telenovela 'Hoy es siempre todavía.' Morales' most iconic performance was in the 1997 telenovela 'Tierra Brava,' where she played dual roles as Regina and her twin sister, Reina. Throughout her career, she appeared in numerous other Cuban television productions.

  • Morales began her theatrical career in Havana in the 1970s.
  • Her television debut was in 1984 with the series 'La frontera del deber.'
  • Morales gained widespread popularity in 1987 with her role in the telenovela 'Hoy es siempre todavía.'
  • Her most acclaimed performance was in the 1997 telenovela 'Tierra Brava.'
  • Morales relocated to the United States in 2018 to be with her son.

The players

Zelma Morales

A celebrated Cuban actress known for her roles in popular telenovelas and theater productions. She began her career in the 1970s and gained widespread recognition in the 1980s and 1990s.

Fabián

Zelma Morales' son, who lives in the United States. Fabián follows in the artistic footsteps of his parents and grandfather.

Albertico Pujol

A close friend of Zelma Morales since their youth, who announced her passing on Facebook.

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What they’re saying

“It's devastating to know that Zelma will no longer be with us. It's very sad.”

— Albertico Pujol, Actor and close friend

“Zelma was a brilliant actress and a courageous woman. She had integrity and an unwavering commitment to her principles.”

— Lara Crofs, Activist

What’s next

The cause of Zelma Morales' death has not been publicly disclosed.

The takeaway

Zelma Morales' passing marks the loss of a beloved and influential figure in the Cuban artistic community, whose career spanned decades and whose impact extended beyond the realm of entertainment through her advocacy for freedom and human rights.