Rep Confirms Ángel Salazar’s Passing

Actor Ángel Salazar, renowned for his role as Chi Chi in the iconic 1983 film “Scarface,” has passed away. The Cuban-American actor was 68. His representative and friend Ann Wingsong confirmed to TMZ that Salazar died in his sleep at a friend’s residence in Brooklyn, New York, on Sunday, Aug. 11.

According to Wingsong, Salazar had been staying at a friend’s home. On Sunday morning, the friend discovered Salazar unresponsive in his bed. While the exact cause of his death wasn’t disclosed, it was mentioned that Salazar had been suffering from heart problems.

Born in 1956, Salazar enjoyed a prolific acting career with numerous credits to his name. However, he was best known for his portrayal of Chi Chi, a criminal associate of Tony Montana, played by Al Pacino, in “Scarface.” In the film, Chi Chi saves Montana’s life during the famous chainsaw scene but meets his end in the climactic final showdown, struck down by a flurry of bullets from a hit squad hired by drug kingpin Alejandro Sosa. The movie, directed by Brian De Palma and penned by Oliver Stone, also starred Michelle Pfeiffer, Steven Bauer, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, F. Murray Abraham, and the late actors Paul Shenar and Robert Loggia.

Salazar’s filmography boasts other significant roles. He appeared in “Where the Buffalo Roam” (1980), “A Stranger is Watching” (1982), “The Wild Life” (1984), “Sylvester” (1985), “Punchline” (1988), “Maniac Cop 2” (1990), and “Carlito’s Way” (1993). His television credits include appearances in “On Our Own,” “The New $treetz Seriez,” “Jersey Mafia Chronicles,” and “In Living Color.”

Besides acting, Salazar was also a stand-up comedian. He coined the catchphrase “Sheck it out” and featured in several HBO comedy specials. Additionally, he made regular appearances on NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.”

The news of Salazar’s death prompted a flood of tributes. Under his last Instagram post, one fan expressed their shock and sadness, writing, “I am in complete shock..d- I hope u knew how much u touched the lives of all who knew u.. thank u for being such a good friend.” Another person commented, “Oh chichi.. my friend. Thank you for being such an amazing friend and best co star to ever exist. I hope you have all the yayo in the world up in heaven… Love you. See you again one day you will be missed. Rest In peace.”

Salazar’s contribution to the world of film and comedy leaves a lasting legacy. His performances, particularly as Chi Chi in “Scarface,” have left an indelible mark on popular culture. As fans and peers continue to mourn his loss, his work will undoubtedly be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

Source: TMZ