His father, a waiter named Juan Miguel who had remained in Cuba, famously fought for his son’s return.
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Not really, the father was ordered to do that!
He was sending messages that he wants his son to stay in the USA.
Fidel made Elian a symbol. That made Elian rich and famous in Cuba. So he is now doing great over there, unlike of most of his compatriots!
Fidel was his dad, for all intents and purposes.