The City of Miami Beach will unveil a plaque today, October 15, in honor of Cuban American actor Desi Arnaz. This date is also the 73rd anniversary of the debut of I Love Lucy, the iconic TV show that brought Desi’s talent and Cuban charm into the homes of millions of Americans.
Desi Arnaz, the Cuban-American actor and producer, will have a historic plaque in Miami Beach, to be placed in Collins Park in honor of his performance at Park Avenue restaurant. The tribute is part of the city’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, as announced by Miami Beach authorities in a press release.
On October 15, coinciding with the 73rd anniversary of the first broadcast of “I Love Lucy,” the iconic actor and comedian will be commemorated with a plaque at Collins Park, where Park Avenue restaurant used to be – where Arnaz first gained fame – and where the Miami City Ballet is located today.
Known for his iconic TV catchphrases like “Lucy, I’m home” and “Lucy, you got some ‘splainin’ to do,” artist Desi Arnaz will be honored during a ceremony at 4:00 pm at Collins Park, 2200 Liberty Ave.
“Desi Arnaz represents the quintessential American dream,” said Miami Beach Commissioner Alex Fernández, who sponsored a resolution to partially fund Florida’s historic plaque in Arnaz’s honor. “As a proud Cuban-American, Desi was a role model for future generations, including mine.”
For many of us who grew up in Cuban American households, I Love Lucy reruns were the only thing on television where we got to see a Cuban living in America, just like us. Desi was an inspiration to all of us Cuban American kids, and of course, the inspiration for this website’s name.