Scarface actor Angel Salazar has tragically been found dead in bed at a friend’s house, according to reports. The actor’s representative and close friend Ann Wingsong reportedly told TMZ that the 68-year-old actor passed away in his sleep while staying at a friend’s home in Brooklyn, New York, US, over the weekend.
Angel was best known for his role in the iconic gangster film Scarface, where he played the sidekick of Al Pacino‘s lead character, Tony Montana. On Sunday, Ms Wingsong revealed that his friend discovered his lifeless body when checking on him in the morning.
While the official cause of death has not been disclosed, Ms Wingsong stated that Angel had been dealing with ongoing heart issues.
Salazar secured the role of Chi Chi early in his acting career. His character, a gun-toting henchman and loyal follower of mobster Tony, saves his boss’s life during the famous chainsaw scene in the 1983 film.
The character meets a violent end in a hail of bullets as drug kingpin Alejandro Sosa sends a hit squad to kill both him and Montana, leading to the explosive finale of the film.
Following the heartbreaking news, loved ones and long-time fans of the actor have taken to social media to share touching tributes to the talented actor.
Tito Puente Jr. , a close friend of the late actor, posted heartfelt pictures of the pair hugging, and wrote: “Rest in peace Angel Salazar “chichi” you were an amazing actor and good friend hermano. From scarface to carlito’s way your characters and comedy will be forever missed..”
Angel began his acting career back in 1979 with his first role in the movie Boulevard Nights.
He also collaborated with Hollywood heavyweight Tom Hanks in the 1998 comedy-drama Punchline, before reuniting with Al Pacino for the 1993 crime drama, ‘Carlito’s Way’.
Before his untimely passing, Angel was still active in the acting scene and was involved in a film project this year.
The final movie he was working on was The Brooklyn Premiere, directed by Eric Spade Rivas. In this forthcoming feature, set to conclude filming at the end of 2024, Angel shared the screen once more with the iconic Steven Bauer, best known as Manolo from Scarface.
Following the devastating announcement, friends and admirers of Engel flocked to X (Twitter), to express their profound grief and love. Diana Lynn of the Band Candy shared touching memories alongside playful photos, stating: “Shocked and saddened to hear my friend Angel passed away. You will be missed, thank you for making me laugh every time we see each other. Xoxo.”