Only Fools and Horses star dead at 78 after 'long illness'
Mario Ernesto Sánchez, who starred in Only Fools and Horses, has died at the age of 78 following a "long and painful illness" as tributes pour in for the late star
Mario Ernesto Sánchez, known for his appearances in 'Only Fools and Horses' and 'Miami Vice', has passed away at the age of 78. The actor's battle with a "long and painful illness" came to an end approximately at 3am.
His agent released a statement confirming the sombre news: "Mario Ernesto Sánchez died today at 3.03am as a result of a long and painful illness."
Throughout his extensive career, Mario featured in the beloved series 'Only Fools and Horses', portraying a Colombian drug lord in the two-part Christmas special 'Miami Twice'. Additionally, he was seen in 'Miami Vice', taking on the recurring role of a limousine driver.
In 2006, he appeared in a different minor role in the film adaptation of 'Miami Vice'. His acting resume also includes works like 'Invasion U.S.A.' and 'The Specialist'.
Tributes have begun to flood in following the news of Mario's passing, which was confirmed by the South Florida newspaper 'Diario Las Américas', reports the Mirror.
Ramón A. Sánchez said: "A glory of Cuba and the theater has left us: Mario Ernesto Sánchez. He is already with Lorca, Molière, Euripides and many more greats of the theater. Rest in peace Chachito and thank you very much for your legacy."
Actress Verónica Abruza expressed her sorrow: "Sad news. Goodbye Mario Ernesto Sánchez. My condolences to his beloved children, family and friends. I will always remember how kind you were upon my arrival in Miami; your attention, your chivalry. May your soul unite with the source of light and love."
Following the tragic development, Miami Art Promotion stated: "The outstanding actor and director of Cuban origin Mario Ernesto Sánchez dies in Miami.
"His tireless work in the Cuban exile theatre, since his early arrival in the United States, has earned him the valuable work of Teatro Avante, a group he founded, as well as the Miami International Hispanic Theater Festival, with almost 40 years of experience.
"Peace to his remains and condolences to his loved ones and friends. It also serves as a well-deserved tribute to his extensive career."
Mario was born in 1947 in San Antonio de las Vegas, Cuba, before relocating to the United States at the age of 15 during Operation Pedro Pan. He established Teatro Avante, his own Hispanic theatre company, in Florida in 1979.
In 2014, Mario was honoured with the Legacy Award in Los Angeles for "outstanding individuals whose lifelong commitment to Latino Theater in the United States and Latin America will have a lasting impact on the field".
Upon receiving the accolade, Mario expressed: "[It means] that we have done a lot but we have a lot more to do. That's all it means. I'm humbled by it but at the same time I'm very proud.
"But I always feel we haven't done enough. We still need to create more interest in the residents of Miami for theater; that's what we are still lacking.
"Don't misunderstand me, I'm happy we are getting this award and it belongs to everybody who has helped Teatro Avante and the International Hispanic Theatre Festival to survive, and that includes audiences and sponsors. But I have to be honest, I think there's still a lot that needs to be done."
He acknowledged that Miami "used to be a cultural desert" but expressed his commitment to the city, saying: "Miami is my home. So I stay and fight, fight for what I believe and what I believe is good for the city. So whatever it takes, for as long as it takes. I believe in theater. It does a lot of good to people, to the community."