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Latin Times
Latin Times
Entertainment
Alicia Civita

The Curse of the 28th: A Fatal Day for Mexican Celebrities Including Silvia Pinal, Chespirito, And Juan Gabriel

En español

The 28th day of the month seems to have been casting a mysterious shadow over the history of Mexican entertainment—a date that, for some, has become synonymous with the farewell of some of the most iconic figures in show business. On November 28, 2024, the world said goodbye to Silvia Pinal, one of the greatest stars in Mexican cinema, theater, and television.

Exactly ten years before, on the very day, Roberto "Chespirito" Gómez Bolaños, the man behind beloved characters like 'El Chavo del 8' and 'El Chapulín Colorado,' also passed away.

Other legends such as José José, Juan Gabriel, Armando Manzanero, and Manuel "El Loco" Valdés also passed away on the 28th, cementing this date as a peculiar marker in entertainment history.

A life devoted to art: the legacy of Silvia Pinal

Silvia Pinal, widely recognized as the last diva of Mexico's Golden Age of Cinema, passed away at the age of 94. Her career spanned more than seven decades, leaving an lasting legacy. As an actress, producer, and matriarch of an artistic dynasty, Pinal pioneered musical theater in Mexico, creating productions that defined generations. Her work with Spanish filmmaker Luis Buñuel in films like 'Viridiana' brought her international acclaim.

Her passing is a profound loss for Mexico, but it also draws attention to the strange connection that links the 28th to the farewells of many showbiz legends.

Roberto "Chespirito" Gómez Bolaños

On November 28, 2014, exactly ten years before Silvia Pinal's death, the world bid farewell to Roberto Gómez Bolaños, better known as "Chespirito." Creator of iconic characters like 'El Chavo del 8' and 'El Chapulín Colorado,' his work defined the childhoods of generations with heartfelt humor and unforgettable stories.

His death left a deep wound in the hearts of millions of fans, marking one of the saddest days in Mexican television history.

José José

On September 28, 2019, the "Príncipe de la Canción" passed away after a long battle with cancer. A symbol of romantic music in Latin America, José José left behind timeless hits like 'El Triste' and 'Amar y Querer.'

Although his death was overshadowed by family controversies and media disputes, his musical legacy remains untouched.

Juan Gabriel

On August 28, 2016, Mexico lost one of its greatest stars: Juan Gabriel. Known as "El Divo de Juárez," he was more than a singer—he was a cultural phenomenon. With songs like 'Querida,' 'Amor Eterno,' and 'Hasta Que Te Conocí,' his departure was a tremendous loss.

Juan Gabriel not only won the hearts of millions but also broke barriers by being unapologetically himself in a world that was not always welcoming. His passing, like many others on the 28th, remains etched in the collective memory.

Manuel "El Loco" Valdés

Cristian Castro with his father, Manuel "El Loco" Valdés (Credit: Courtesy)

Another entertainment giant, Manuel "El Loco" Valdés, passed away on August 28, 2020. Renowned for his irreverent humor and ability to make audiences laugh, Valdés left a unique mark on comedy.

Brother to Germán "Tin Tan" Valdés and Ramón "Don Ramón" Valdés, and father to singer Cristian Castro, Manuel carved out his legacy by creating a comedic style that inspired generations.

Armando Manzanero

Armando Manzanero died of COVID-19 in 2020. (Credit: Courtesy/Armando Manzanero Estate)

The world-renowned Mexican songwriter passed away four months later, on December 28, 2020, due to complications from COVID-19.

Known for iconic love songs like 'Somos novios,' 'Esta tarde vi llover,' and 'Adoro,' Manzanero occupies a significant chapter in Latin music history.

© 2024 Latin Times. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

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