Juan Padrón, father of Elpidio Valdés, has died

March 24, 2020

Juan Padrón, one of the best cartoonists in Cuba and "father" of Elpidio Valdés, one of the most patriotic and beloved animated characters in the history of children's productions in the country, passed away in the early morning of March 24, 2020.

His son Ian Padrón, a talented filmmaker known for directing multiple music videos and for directing the film Habanastation (2014), posted a loving farewell on his Facebook wall, which allowed the news to become known:

"Our beloved father Juan Padrón has just passed into posterity at 5:20 am today, March 24, 2020. 'The Last Mambi' battled for 20 days and leaves us full of love and peace. We are grateful to all the doctors, friends and admirers who during these days have shown their affection and admiration for this great artist who is now part of Cuban identity and Cuba's independence."

"Papi, I know you would say 'don't be so serious'.... and you're right. We will always remember you as the most likable, humble and brilliant human being we will ever know in our lives. Thank you for Elpidio Valdés, for the Vampires in Havana and above all for being such a noble and loving father and husband. See you later, compay!," he posted.