‘Raíces y Recuerdos’ on Mega TV.

Spanish Broadcasting System (SBS)announced that “Raíces y Recuerdos,” MEGA TV’s enriching program about the history of Cuba that is hosted by the well-known journalist, Camilo Egaña, will take a look back at two of the most picturesque and popular figures of La Havana environment: “El Caballero de Paris,” or “The Gentleman of Paris,” and “Juana Bacallao.”

Every country has images and figures in their cultures that become a part of the nation’s collective conscience and popular imagination. These figures also make up a significant part of both the country’s legends as well as its realities, becoming a part of the people’s routines, customs and daily lives. “Raíces y Recuerdos” pays homage to two of the most beloved characters who will forever be in the memories and hearts of Cubans in exile.

Although he was commonly known as “The Gentleman of Paris,” his true name was José María López Lledín. While there exists some debate as to how he evolved into the man he eventually became, there is no debate about how he elegantly walked through the streets of Havana, while burdening no one with his fate of living a homeless life. He would recite poetic verses and tell princely stories to those who would listen and demonstrated random acts of kindness that only served to illustrate his nickname. In 1985, he tragically passed away in the Cuban capital, and, while it was not his intention, he became an emblem for all that was good in this old city.

Juana Bacallao, commonly known as the “Show Woman” of Cuba, is the inspiration of the famous song “Juana la Cubana.” The black goddess of the Cuban cabaret has learned how to establish a dialogue with the public by using mastery of her powerful voice, her unexpected jokes and her distinctive corporeal gestures that have made her a truly unique artist.