Perhaps his role in Renacer was a small step that led him to new opportunities, but what’s truly great about Januel Hernández Ojeda is the natural way he acts and plays his character, Ale, in the current Cuban soap opera Sábados de Gloria.

This Matanzas native, specifically from Jagüey Grande, confessed to the Cuban News Agency that becoming an actor never crossed his mind, but life led him to this world, and today he feels satisfied with what he does.

"Acting never crossed my mind. I wanted to do many things: archaeology, a degree in physical education; I was even an athlete for many years when I was on the national extreme sports team, and—precisely—it was while I was here that acting came along, and I was already around 27."

Theater, a school for Januel

Although he didn't have the opportunity to study at the University of the Arts (ISA), after applying twice and failing, Januel decided to study theater, and that's where the journey he follows began.

"I joined the Olga Alonso amateur group with maestro Humberto Rodríguez, a wonderful person I love. Then I was at Berenjena Teatro with Anaisi, then I moved on to the Rita Montaner company with maestro César, and finally I joined Ludi Teatro, where I am today with my maestro Miguel Abreu, to whom I’am very grateful for everything I’ve learned."

After acting in Tras la Huella, participating in some music videos, and appearing in soap operas, Januel continues to choose the stage, where he gained the professional experience he currently enjoys.

"Theater has been a school for me that has opened many doors, doors I always trusted, since I am a man of faith and God's timing is perfect. Everything comes at the right moment, and that is precisely what motivates me every day, to embrace the opportunities that present themselves in my life."

An Ale reborn with Sábados de gloria

For the man who is now 38 years old, both Renacer and Sábados de gloria have been part of these blessings that marked a before and after in the life of a young man who is taking off on the right foot, as they say in popular slang.

“I got into television through one or another casting call I heard about, and I was lucky enough to pass. While I was filming Renacer, I learned they were holding one for the next soap opera, and I applied. There, I met Tamara Castellanos and was selected to play Alejandro.”

When asked how much of Januel Ale shares, he expressed a lot. They both share the same feelings: seeking tranquility, peace, love, and trying to help others without any personal gain.

“I think that more than feelings, Ale and Januel have spirituality in common, even in their personal history. Alejandro performed at ISA twice, and I say this in a scene, and it happened to me in real life. The difference is that Ale gave up and went to work as a bartender, where he found his calling; and Januel kept fighting until he achieved it, never losing faith.

In Renacer, the role was small, but in Sábados de Gloria, I performed better. I think there's always a character that leaves a mark on you, and it seems that through Ale, I found mine, as many doors have opened for me because of the closeness we have in common. I’d say there's 80% of Januel in Alejandro.”

From Omara's Bar to Piña Colada

Due to the public's acceptance of his role, Januel was invited to the 22nd Piña Colada Festival, where he shared with the people of Ciego de Ávila and took home the best experiences.

"I got to this event because the producer Giusette first contacted me for an interview and then invited me to the festival, where I was 100% available, as I had heard about it in previous years and wanted to experience it.

"It was my first time in this central province. I'd already heard that the local audience was very welcoming, but I think they understated it, because it's wonderful. Ciego is a very beautiful town, and I think I fell in love with that place.”

Rather than leaving another taste in the “Piña Colada,” Januel came to share with the people, and although I slept little and tried to hide the dark circles under his glasses, he took home the best gift of “Latir Avileño,” the cultural crusade of this forum, which every April brings new artists and actors to maternity homes, nursing homes, and homes for children without family support; as well as communities, student centers, prisons, and educational and social centers.

I dare say, Januel was left wanting more Piña Colada; on each visit, he demonstrated great empathy with children, students, pregnant women, and inmates with whom he took photos, shared personal experiences, danced, sang, and spread joy.

Exclusive facts about Januel behind the camera

He admits to being super shy, however, he doesn't show it either in front of or behind the camera. He's a confident young man with a unique energy that captivates the audience that watches him every night on Sábados de Gloria.

"I think sometimes I have to create a little character to interact with the audience. Since I was a child, it's been hard for me even to ask for directions, but I owe what I've learned to theater; thanks to this, I feel much more confident."

This young and popular actor prefers to be called Manolo, not because it's one of his names, but because that's what a teacher used to call him during his student days.

“Something really interesting is that everyone in my family calls me Manolo. Even if they don't call me that, I think they're scolding me. I had a teacher in high school who was very good friends with an uncle named Manolo, and ever since then, he always called me that, and that nickname stuck with me for good,” he said with a laugh.

In addition to acting, Januel enjoys exercising every day in his free time, except for Sundays when he rests. He has been training in martial arts since he was 8 years old and holds a black belt in karate.

Forever grateful

We can currently find him at Ludi Teatro, located on I Street where they offer screenings on weekends: Fridays and Saturdays at 7:00 p.m. and Sundays at 5:00 p.m.

“I really want to make films. I've done some very small things, but I'd love to expand my horizons, especially taking on a negative character, something that's far from Manolo and takes him out of his comfort zone.”

The famous bartender from the Cuban soap opera is eager to conquer the world today, and unlike Ale, he doesn't intend to stay behind the bar.

He is grateful for his character, because, as he says on several occasions, he doesn't hide his faith, and so if he had to use one word to describe himself, it would be: "Grateful."

"If I'm sure of anything in this life, it's my faith. It's the only thing that keeps me alive. That's why I trust in the process, I'm grateful for every outcome, and I enjoy the plans God has for me. I have nothing left to say but thank you, because I’m eternally grateful," he concluded.

Translated by Amilkal Labañino / CubaSi Translation Staff