An incident in Havana drew attention to the American rapper Tekashi, with reports noting that two individuals—one of them impersonating the artist—appeared outside a luxury hotel. Mintur, the Cuban Ministry of Tourism, received the notification on a Friday about the scene near a high-end lodging area and the way the crowd reacted to the celebrity presence.
Video footage circulating on social media last Thursday showed a large crowd, mostly young people, rushing toward the Iberostar Grand Packard hotel. The scene depicted fans gathering near the entrance and on surrounding streets as news spread that the rapper might be nearby, with many eager to catch a glimpse and perhaps obtain items tossed from a balcony.
Mintur explained in a formal note that word of the performer being in the resort area prompted some followers of the musician to converge at the venue, hoping for a sighting. The ministry also emphasized that the events did not involve the artist himself and did not indicate any change in his stay within the country.
Authorities confirmed that two men were involved, one of whom was not associated with the singer. The impersonator was accused of creating disruption and attempting to provoke a reaction from the public. The ministry stressed that the impersonation did not reflect the artist or his itinerary in Cuba.
Initial reports suggested that the New York based performer could be seen distributing cash from a hotel terrace, a maneuver that has sometimes been associated with his flamboyant public image. The artist himself later addressed the situation through a social media post, stating that the lookalike who appeared nearby did not represent him.
Other coverage described the artist as a young American whose life has attracted controversy and legal issues on several occasions. Discussions around past legal matters included serious allegations, but the focus of the Cuban episode remained on public response and the role of impostors in celebrity sightings.
The Havana event occurred amid a period of economic strain on the island, a situation intensified by the global pandemic and ongoing effects of external pressures. Accounts highlighted long lines for basic goods, rising prices, and the challenges faced by households as the country navigates inflation and limited access to some essentials. The contrast between a high-profile visit and daily economic realities underscored broader tensions in the region.
Observers note that large crowds and the presence of visitors known for a flashy lifestyle can trigger a mix of excitement and concern among residents. The episode in Havana illustrates how celebrity moments can intersect with everyday life, prompting quick responses from authorities and social media users alike.