Mexican actor and comedian Roberto Gmez Bolaos, best known as Chespirito, has died, Televisa said Friday. He was 85.
Mexican actor Roberto Gomez Bolanos, best known as Chespirito, poses during the launching of a television series on Oct. 10, 2006, in Mexico City. (Credit: Luis Acosta/AFP/Getty Images)
Bolaospassed away at his home in Cancn, Mexico, according to the Spanish-language network. He had lived in the coastal city, in the state of Quintana Roo, while battling health issues in recent years.
The cause of his death was not immediately announced.
On social media in May, the beloved comedian spoke about his physical status. He said that although his condition was fragile, he was tranquil and happy with his family, CNN Mxico reported.
In 2009, Bolaos health deteriorated after he underwent surgery and developed respiratory problems. It was then that he moved to Cancn, so that he would not have to use the oxygen tank he needed in Mexico City.
Bolanos was renowned for his signature character on the long-running TV series El Chavo del Ocho (The Boy From Number Eight) in which he played a youngster living in a neighborhood of the Mexican capital.
The first episode of the series, which brought the actor international recognition, aired in June 1971.
The story of Chespirito is the story of Mexican television, a CNN Mxico reporter said.
A security guard walks next to a commemorative sculpture of the beloved Spanish-language television character El Chavo del Ocho played by Mexican actor Roberto Gomez Bolaos exhibited at the Mall Chipichape in Cali, Colombia. (Credit: Luis Robayo/AFP/Getty Images)
Bolaos other well-known roles included El Chapuln Colorado (The Red Grasshopper), El Chanfle and Chompiras.
After the comedians death was announced Friday, fans took to social media in droves to express their sadness.
I profoundly lament the death of Sir Roberto Gmez Bolaos, Chespirito. My condolences to his family, Mexican President Enrique Pea Nieto said on Twitter. Mexico has lost an icon whose work transcended generations and borders.
Another admirer tweeted thatBolaos was our Robin Williams and a national folk hero in his native country.
My parents, I, and now my daughter grew watching his show, Marco Mendoza said.
A funeral Mass for the actor will be held Sunday morning at Aztec Stadium in Mexico City, Univision reported. The soccer venue has a seating capacity of 104,000.
CNN en Espaol contributed to this report.
Correction: An earlier version of this reportstated that Chespirito was a role played byBolaos. It was the actorsnickname. The article has been updated to reflect the change.
Lamento profundamente el fallecimiento de Don Roberto Gmez Bolaos,"Chespirito". Mis condolencias a su familia.
Enrique Pea Nieto (@EPN) November 28, 2014
Source: http://ktla.com/2014/11/28/beloved-mexican-comedian-roberto-gomez-bolanos-who-played-chespirito-dies-at-85/
