Farewell to Mayra Gómez Kemp, Icon of Spanish Television
Mayra Gómez Kemp, the beloved Cuban-born actress, singer, and TV host, passed away in Madrid at 76. Known for her role as the presenter of the iconic Spanish game show Un, dos, tres… responda otra vez, she leaves a legacy that transcends generations.
A Journey from Cuba to Spain
Mayra Gómez Kemp was born in Havana, Cuba, on February 14, 1948, into a family of musicians. Her parents, Ramiro Gómez Kemp and Velia Martínez Febles were Cuban musicians of Spanish descent who fled the island after the Cuban Revolution. Like many exiles, the family never returned to Cuba. Mayra’s life took her on a journey through several Latin American countries and the United States before making Spain her home.
Mayra’s academic background was as diverse as her upbringing. She pursued studies in Philosophy and Literature at the University of Tampa, Florida, and later graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of Miami in 1969. These academic achievements would serve her well as she transitioned into the entertainment world.
In 1970, Mayra moved to Spain, spending some time in Barcelona before relocating to Madrid, where her career took off. She started working in dubbing at Radio Madrid (Cadena Ser), a stepping stone that would lead her to one of the most iconic roles of her career.
The Golden Era of Un, dos, tres
Mayra Gómez Kemp’s breakthrough came in the 1970s when she became the host of Un, dos, tres… responda otra vez, a popular television game show that was a household name in Spain. Produced by the visionary Chicho Ibáñez Serrador, the show captivated millions of viewers and became a cultural phenomenon. The program was characterized by its unique blend of quiz segments and a variety of entertainment, drawing viewers from all age groups. Mayra’s charm, wit, and warm presence made her a beloved figure on Spanish television.
Her role on the show solidified her place in the hearts of many Spaniards. Un, dos, tres... was more than just a game show—it became a social event for families across the country, as they gathered around their televisions to watch her lead the proceedings with poise and a sense of humor. Generations of viewers grew up with her on-screen, and even after she left the show, she remained synonymous with that golden era of Spanish television.
Battling Illness and Overcoming Adversity
In 2009, Mayra’s life took a drastic turn when she was diagnosed with tongue cancer, followed by subsequent diagnoses of throat and neck cancer. These illnesses forced her to step away from the limelight as she focused on her recovery. Despite the severity of her condition, Mayra faced the challenges head-on. She underwent surgery and rehabilitation, during which she had to relearn how to speak—a daunting task for someone whose career was built on her voice.
Her determination paid off, and she made an inspirational recovery, demonstrating the same resilience and strength that had endeared her to the public during her television years. Although she never fully returned to the entertainment industry, her bravery in the face of illness further cemented her status as a beloved public figure.
Recently, Mayra suffered another health setback. A few days before her death, she experienced a domestic accident at her home in Mijas, Málaga, which left her stranded on the floor for over 18 hours before help arrived. She was hospitalized but returned home to recover. Unfortunately, this time, her body could not overcome the challenges it faced, and she passed away on a Sunday in Madrid, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and grace.
A Life of Music and Love
Though best known for her work on television, Mayra Gómez Kemp had a varied career that included both acting and music. Few people remember that she formed a musical trio called “Acuario” alongside two of her fellow hostesses from Un, dos, tres…—María Durán and Beatriz Escudero. The group enjoyed some success, with hits like “Rema, rema, marinero.” In 1977, she embarked on a solo music career, releasing an album titled Una Dama in 1978. Produced by Ramón Arcusa of Dúo Dinámico, the album showcased a different facet of her talents. It allowed her to explore her passion for music, even if her television fame would always overshadow this chapter of her career.
Mayra also found great love in her life. In 1974, she married Argentine actor Alberto Berco, a man 20 years her senior. Despite the age difference, the two shared a deep bond, and their marriage lasted for nearly five decades until Berco’s passing in 2021. Their love story was unconventional in many ways—they married by proxy in Bolivia before having a civil ceremony in Madrid in 1987. Through all the challenges life threw at them, their relationship remained a constant source of support for Mayra.
Mayra Gómez Kemp may have spent the last years of her life away from the public eye, but her impact on Spanish culture endures. Her time on Un, dos, tres… remains a fond memory for those who grew up watching the show, and her resilience in the face of illness inspires many. As an entertainer, she brought joy and laughter to millions of households, and as a person, she showed the world the meaning of strength and perseverance.
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Her passing marks the end of an era, but the memories of her time in the spotlight and the grace with which she handled the trials of life will not be forgotten. Mayra’s life was one of reinvention, from her early days in Cuba to her rise in Spain’s entertainment industry, and she leaves behind a legacy of courage, talent, and love that transcends borders.
