Pedro Armendariz Jr was one of the most popular and prolific actors in Mexico, with a career that spanned six decades and more than 200 TV shows and films. He was also the son of Pedro Armendariz, a legendary actor who worked with Hollywood icons like John Wayne and Sean Connery. But what was the cause of death of Pedro Armendariz Jr, and how did he cope with his illness? This article will explore the life and death of a Mexican star, who left behind a legacy of talent and charisma.
Early Life and Career
Pedro Armendariz Jr was born in Mexico City on April 6, 1940, to Pedro Armendariz and Carmelita Bohr, both actors. He inherited his father’s passion for acting and made his debut in 1966, in the film Fuera de la ley. He soon became a regular in Mexican cinema, appearing in genres ranging from comedy to drama to action. He also ventured into Hollywood, working with directors like John Sturges, John Huston, and Steven Spielberg. Some of his notable Hollywood films include Guns for San Sebastian, Chisum, Earthquake, Amistad, The Mask of Zorro, and The Mexican.
Family and Personal Life
Pedro Armendariz Jr was married three times and had four children. His first wife was Lucia Gomez de Parada, whom he married in 1962 and divorced in 1980. His second wife was Luz Maria Jerez, whom he married in 1980 and divorced in 1981. His third wife was Ofelia Medina, whom he married in 1981. He also had a close relationship with his father, Pedro Armendariz, who was his mentor and inspiration. Pedro Armendariz Jr followed his father’s footsteps in appearing in a James Bond film, Licence to Kill, as President Hector Lopez. His father had appeared in From Russia with Love, as Kerim Bey.
Illness and Death
In November 2011, Pedro Armendariz Jr was diagnosed with eye cancer, a rare and aggressive type of cancer that affects the tissues around the eye. He decided to seek treatment in New York, at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, one of the world’s leading cancer hospitals. He underwent several surgeries and chemotherapy sessions, but the cancer proved to be too advanced and spread to other parts of his body. He died on December 26, 2011, at the age of 71, surrounded by his family and friends. He became the first Mexican actor to be honored with the dimming of Broadway’s marquee lights that night. His remains were buried at Panteon Jardin in Mexico City, alongside his father.
Legacy and Tribute
Pedro Armendariz Jr was widely respected and admired in the Mexican film industry, as well as in Hollywood. He was known for his versatility, charisma, and professionalism. He also served as the president of the Mexican film academy from 2006 to 2010, promoting and supporting Mexican cinema. He received numerous awards and recognitions for his work, including the Ariel Award, the Golden Globe, and the MTV Movie Award. He also has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which he received in 2000. His last film, Casa de mi Padre, starring Will Ferrell and his longtime friends Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna, was released posthumously in 2012. The film was dedicated to his memory, as a tribute to his talent and friendship.
Pedro Armendariz Jr was a Mexican star who left a mark on the world of cinema, with his impressive and diverse filmography. He was also a loving son, husband, father, and friend, who faced his illness with courage and dignity. He died of eye cancer, a rare and fatal disease, but his legacy lives on in his films and in the hearts of his fans. He was a true legend of Mexican cinema, and a source of pride and inspiration for his country.
