Ricky Belmonte was a Filipino actor who rose to fame in the 1960s as one of the talents of Sampaguita Pictures. He starred in many movies, mostly musicals and comedies, with popular actresses like Rosemarie Sonora, Vilma Santos, and Nora Aunor. He was also known for his marriage to Sonora, with whom he had three children, including actress Sheryl Cruz. However, his life was cut short by a stroke that caused cerebral hemorrhage in 2001. Here is a brief overview of his life and career, as well as the details of his tragic death.
Early Life and Career
Ricky Belmonte was born as Jesus Velez Cruz on December 24, 1947 in Tondo, Manila to Cesar Cruz, Sr. and Milagros Velez. His screen surname was taken from the Belmontes, STAR magazine publishers who used to publish several movie magazines in the 1960s [according to Wikipedia]. He started his acting career in 1966, when he was discovered by Sampaguita Pictures and cast in the movie Viva Ranchera. He soon became a regular in the studio’s musicals and comedies, often paired with Sonora, whom he married in 1970.
Belmonte was known for his good looks, charm, and singing voice. He was part of the YeYe Generation, a group of young stars who popularized rock and roll music in the Philippines. Some of his notable movies include Let’s Go Hippie (1968), Bittersweet (1969), First Kiss (1970), My Prayer (1971), and Just Married, Do Not Disturb (1972). He also ventured into drama and action genres, appearing in movies like Life Everlasting (1971), Babae! (1977), Temptation Island (1980), and Nympha (1980).
Personal Life and Controversies
Belmonte’s marriage to Sonora was not without challenges. The couple separated in 1986, after rumors of infidelity and domestic violence surfaced [according to IMDb]. Belmonte was also involved in a paternity case with actress Gina Alajar, who claimed that he fathered her son Ryan Eigenmann [according to Philippine Entertainment Portal]. Belmonte denied the allegation and refused to undergo a DNA test. He also had a feud with his cousin Tirso Cruz III, another actor from Sampaguita Pictures, over personal and professional issues [according to Philippine Star].
Despite these controversies, Belmonte remained close to his children Renzo, Sheryl, and Patrick. He also maintained a good relationship with Sonora, who supported him during his illness. He was also proud of his nephews and nieces who followed his footsteps in show business, such as Rodjun Cruz, Rayver Cruz, Donna Cruz, Sunshine Cruz, and Geneva Cruz.
Death and Legacy
Belmonte suffered a stroke on September 29, 2001, while he was at home in Parañaque City. He was rushed to the Medical Center Parañaque, where he slipped into a coma [according to Wikipedia]. He died on October 3, 2001, at the age of 53. He was buried at the La Loma Cemetery in Caloocan City.
Belmonte’s death shocked and saddened his family, friends, fans, and colleagues in the entertainment industry. Many of them paid tribute to him and expressed their condolences. His daughter Sheryl said that he was a loving father who always gave her advice and encouragement [according to ABS-CBN News]. His ex-wife Sonora said that he was a good man who did not deserve to die so young [according to Philippine Daily Inquirer]. His co-star Vilma Santos said that he was one of her favorite leading men who made her laugh on and off the screen [according to Manila Bulletin].
Belmonte’s legacy lives on through his movies and songs that are still enjoyed by many Filipinos today. He is also remembered as one of the pioneers of Philippine cinema who contributed to its growth and development. He is regarded as one of the icons of Philippine pop culture who influenced generations of actors and musicians.
