Hispanic Actors Who Passed Away in 2025

The year 2025 saw the departure of many influential Hispanic actors who helped shape the landscape of global cinema through their remarkable performances. These artists represented a wide spectrum of cultures and eras including the classic golden age of Mexican film and the vibrant contemporary scene in Spain and South America. Throughout their distinguished careers they brought authentic voices and diverse stories to audiences around the world while garnering critical acclaim and prestigious awards. Their legacies live on through their extensive bodies of work which continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow artists alike. As we reflect on the year their contributions to the arts remain a testament to the power of Hispanic storytelling.

Emilio Echevarría

This Mexican veteran was best known for his breakout role as El Chivo in the acclaimed film ‘Amores perros’. He also appeared on the international stage when he portrayed the character Mr. Falco in the James Bond movie ‘Die Another Day’. His career was defined by his ability to bring depth and grit to complex characters across various genres. Echevarría was 80 years old when he passed away in early January.

Alma Rosa Aguirre

A prominent figure from the Golden Age of Mexican cinema, Aguirre appeared in several classic productions during her long career. She is remembered for her performances in movies such as ‘The Stronger Sex’ and ‘The Border Man’. Throughout the middle of the 20th century she became a recognizable face for audiences throughout Latin America. She died at the age of 95 after a lifetime dedicated to the performing arts.

Norma Mora

This Mexican actress built a notable filmography during the 1960s and beyond with roles in both comedy and drama. She starred in films like ‘Qué perra vida’ and the science fiction comedy ‘Los astronautas’. Her work contributed to the vibrant entertainment industry in Mexico during a period of significant growth for national cinema. Mora reached the age of 82 before her passing in February.

Yolanda Montes

Known professionally by her stage name Tongolele, Montes was an iconic dancer and actress who became a superstar in Mexico. Although born in the United States she was a fixture of Mexican films such as ‘Nocturne of Love’ and ‘Isle of the Snake People’. She was celebrated for her unique performance style and her presence in the rumberas film genre. She passed away at the age of 93 in her adopted home.

Pilar Del Rey

This American actress of Hispanic descent had a career that spanned several decades of Hollywood history. She appeared alongside James Dean in the legendary film ‘Giant’ and had a role in the Western ‘The Kid from Texas’. Her versatile talent allowed her to transition between film and television throughout the mid 20th century. Del Rey was 95 years old at the time of her death.

Juan Margallo

A respected actor and director in Spain, Margallo was a central figure in the Spanish theatrical and cinematic landscape. He received widespread acclaim for his role in the 2018 film ‘Champions’ which became a significant cultural hit. His recent work also included a performance in the 2023 movie ‘Close Your Eyes’. He died in March at the age of 84.

Antonio Gasalla

This Argentine actor and comedian was one of the most beloved figures in his country’s entertainment history. He appeared in notable films such as ‘The Truce’ and the comedy ‘Clams and Mussels’. Gasalla was widely recognized for his character work on television and his sharp comedic timing on stage. He passed away in March at the age of 84.

Ángel del Pozo

This Spanish actor was a staple of European genre cinema and appeared in many westerns and adventure films. His credits include the Spaghetti Western ‘The Big Gundown’ and the adaptation of ‘Treasure Island’. He was known for his steady presence in international co productions during the 1960s and 1970s. Del Pozo was 90 years old when he passed away in late March.

Mario Ernesto Sánchez

As a Cuban actor and director, Sánchez made significant contributions to the theater and film communities in Miami. He appeared in action films such as ‘Invasion U.S.A.’ and ‘The Specialist’. He was also the founder of the Teatro Avante and the International Hispanic Theatre Festival of Miami. He died in April at the age of 78.

Aurora Clavel

This Mexican actress was a prolific performer with a career that included over 100 credits in film and television. She is remembered for her work in movies such as ‘Tarahumara’ and ‘Once Upon a Scoundrel’. Her career spanned more than six decades and made her a familiar face to audiences across Mexico. She passed away in May at the age of 88.

Teresita Reyes

A beloved Chilean actress, Reyes was a mainstay of national television and cinema for many years. She appeared in films such as ‘The Toast’ and the 2008 movie ‘Santos’. Her warm personality and versatile acting skills earned her a dedicated following throughout South America. She was 75 years old at the time of her death in May.

Manuel Zarzo

This Spanish actor had an extensive career that included nearly 200 film and television appearances. He is well known for his roles in the critically acclaimed film ‘The Holy Innocents’ and Pedro Almodovar’s ‘Entre tinieblas’. His long career allowed him to work with many of the most influential directors in Spanish cinema. He died in June at the age of 93.

Verónica Echegui

This Spanish actress rose to fame with her breakout role in the 2006 film ‘My Name Is Juani’ for which she received a Goya Award nomination. She continued to build a successful career with performances in dramas like ‘My Prison Yard’ and various international television projects. Her talent was recognized with multiple nominations and awards throughout the European film circuit. She was 42 years old when she passed away in August.

Isabel Pisano

This Uruguayan actress and journalist had a career that took her from the screens of South America to Europe. She appeared in the film ‘Savage Pampas’ and the drama ‘Heartbreak Tango’. In addition to her acting work she was a respected writer and journalist who reported on major global events. She died in August at the age of 77.

Eusebio Poncela

One of the most prominent Spanish actors of his generation, Poncela was known for his work in avant garde and mainstream cinema. He delivered a haunting performance in the cult classic ‘Arrebato’ and appeared in the acclaimed drama ‘Martín (Hache)’. His intense screen presence made him a favorite of many legendary Spanish directors. He passed away in August at the age of 79.

Adriana Aizemberg

A veteran of the Argentine stage and screen, Aizemberg was known for her comedic and dramatic range. She appeared in movies such as ‘The ABC of Love’ and the 2004 comedy drama ‘Lost Embrace’. Her career lasted over fifty years and she remained active in the industry until late in her life. She died in September at the age of 86.

Héctor Noguera

As a legendary Chilean actor and director, Noguera was a titan of the Latin American cultural scene. He starred in the classic film ‘Jackal of Nahueltoro’ and the 1991 drama ‘The Frontier’. His career was marked by numerous awards and a deep influence on the theatrical landscape of Chile. He died in October at the age of 88.

Héctor Alterio

This Argentine born actor became one of the most respected performers in both Argentina and Spain. He starred in the Academy Award winning film ‘The Official Story’ and the acclaimed drama ‘Son of the Bride’. Throughout his long career he received many honors for his contributions to the Spanish language film industry. He was 96 years old at the time of his death in December.

Celso Bugallo

This Spanish actor gained significant recognition later in his career for his powerful supporting roles. He delivered a memorable performance in the Academy Award winning film ‘The Sea Inside’ and appeared in the 2021 movie ‘The Good Boss’. His work was characterized by a quiet intensity that brought authenticity to every role he played. Bugallo passed away in December at the age of 78.

Please share your memories of these legendary Hispanic performers in the comments.