Gerardo Taracena, best known for his role in Narcos: Mexico, has died aged 55.
His death was announced by Mexico’s actors’ union on Saturday, but no cause of death has been revealed.
‘The National Association of Actors deeply regrets the departure of our colleague Gerardo Taracena. We join in the grief felt by his family, friends and the artistic community,’ the association wrote in an Instagram post.
‘His presence and the power of his performances left an indelible mark on cinema and theatre, in Mexico and the United States,’ CinetecaMexico added.
Born in Mexico City, Taracena’s career spanned over thirty years. He rose to prominence in 2006 as part of Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto where he played the villainous Middle Eye.
His wide-ranging credits also include Texas Rising, Netflix series Queen of the South, Sound of Freedom and Private Perez.
In recent years, he was well-known for playing Pablo Acosta in Narcos: Mexico, the hit crime drama also starring Diego Luna and Michael Peña.
His compelling onscreen performances have been widely praised by fans.
‘He was an outstanding villain in Apocalypto. Rest in peace,’ Nidavelir wrote on Reddit.
‘He played my favourite role in Narcos (Pablo Acosta, the moustache cowboy) and I loved him in Apocalypto,’ Fleranon echoed.
‘I’ll have to watch Narcos now. Apocalypto is one of my favorite movies and he’s one of my most favorite, well-acted villains ever in that film,’ mister_cheeks_26 agreed.
‘Losing such a versatile powerhouse at only 55 feels like a massive robbery for both Mexican cinema and his global fans. He brought an unmistakable gravity to every scene, making even the smallest roles feel absolutely vital,’ th1cknsweetie praised.
Alongside his film and TV career, he has also graced the stage and is a renowned dancer.
More to follow…
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