Danilo Domínguez, Mariloly, an iconic figure of Cuban drag performance, dies in Miami

March 19, 2025

The Cuban artistic community in Miami is in mourning following the death of "Mariloly" (born as Danilo Domínguez), one of the most emblematic figures of drag performance in exile.

Her death occurred this Sunday at a rehabilitation center in south Florida, according to press outlets citing sources from close friends and acquaintances of the comedian and drag performer.

Domínguez had been hospitalized after suffering a fall, and in recent weeks, her health deteriorated rapidly. People who visited her in her final days reported that she could barely recognize those accompanying her.

"I always wanted to be an artist and Miami gave me the opportunity to be on stage," Mariloly stated in an interview with journalist Daysi Ballmajó.

In 1980 —amid the migratory circumstances of the Mariel boatlift— Danilo arrived at a police station dressed as a woman and said she wanted to leave.

According to her account, when they asked her name she answered: "Helen of Troy." And that's how she arrived in Miami, where she became "Mariloly."

Once in Miami, Mariloly consolidated her presence in the city's main theaters and nightclubs, earning the admiration of the exiled Cuban public and the LGBTQ+ scene.

Beyond shining in cabaret, her talent allowed her to participate in theatrical productions, local television, and even in musical groups, demonstrating her versatility.

Mariloly's legacy in the drag performance and comedy scene in Miami is profound. She became a mentor and reference point for new generations of trans and drag artists, who recognize her as a pioneer of Cuban drag performance in exile.

Cuban comedian and actor Alexis Valdés has been one of the artists who has publicly lamented the loss of Mariloly, highlighting her genius and the importance of her work.

"They tell me that Mariloly has left us. What great sorrow and what a great loss for comedy in the city of Miami. A being endowed with tremendous grace and energy. A capacity for improvisation and a unique bravery in playing with the audience," Valdés wrote on his social media.

The humorist fondly recalled the first time he saw Mariloly on stage.

"I saw her for the first time at the Ashé. And I was impressed. I hadn't seen anyone do anything like that since the days of Juana Bacallao. The stage presence was brutal and the laughs she provoked," he wrote in his emotional recollection.

Valdés also highlighted the strength and craft of the artist, forged "in many nights of theater and cabaret," in an era without social media, where talent had to assert itself directly before the public.

"She was a master of that. On several occasions I invited her to work on sketches from my show and we would die laughing," added the comedian, who concluded his tribute with words full of affection and recognition.

"Thank you for the laughs and the charm Mariloly. The world will be less fun without you," he concluded.