Ariel Santana is a renowned communicator, stand-up comedian, screenwriter, and Dominican radio personality, widely known for his participation as a producer and prominent figure in the program "Esto No Es Radio", a space where he shares the microphone with Gabi Desangles, Lizbeth Santos, Ramón Tolentino, Pedro Manuel Casals, and other talents. His direct, critical, and humor-filled style has positioned him as one of the most influential voices in entertainment and public opinion in the Dominican Republic.
Who is Ariel Santana?
Ariel Santana began his media career after his time on “El Mañanero”, a radio show created by Bolívar Valera (El Boli), where he shared the booth with figures like Manolo Ozuna and El Naguero. Subsequently, he joined the team of the YouTube channel “El Antinoti”, directed by Sergio Carlo, where he stood out for four years as a screenwriter and commentator.However, his big leap to fame was consolidated with his arrival at “Esto No Es Radio”, under the production of Santiago Matías (Alofoke), a program that marked a rebirth in his career, giving him national visibility and economic stability, including the acquisition of his first home.
In parallel, he has been part of the comedy collective “La Guagua” and the program “El Club de la Risa”, where his talent for stand-up comedy positioned him as a benchmark of contemporary Dominican humor.Academic Background and Spiritual Life
Before shining in the media, Ariel studied Communications Engineering at the Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo (INTEC). Later, he moved to Germany, where he studied philosophy at the University of Bonn and prepared for the priesthood, dedicating several years to religious formation, including an experience as a missionary.
This spiritual and academic background allowed him to develop critical thinking and a philosophical perspective that today permeates his reflections, many of which he shares on his YouTube channel, where he addresses current affairs, society, religion, politics, and culture.
Ariel Santana and Mental Health
In 2024, Ariel made a brave revelation by publicly confessing that he contemplated suicide due to defamation and personal attacks suffered on social media. He offered this testimony on Esto No Es Radio, while debating media violence with his colleagues, and it became a benchmark for the emotional impact that smear campaigns can have on public figures. He expressed that he thought of his family, especially his five children, to find the strength to move forward.
Personal Life
Ariel is the father of five children, one of whom has autism, which has been a driving force in his life. Throughout his career, he has experienced economic and emotional challenges, but his persistence, talent, and authenticity have made him one of the most admired and respected figures in current Dominican entertainment.See biography of Hony Estrella