Mexican actor Taracena has passed away, the Mexican Academy of Film Arts and Sciences confirmed on Sunday.
No details regarding the cause of his death have been released.
In an Instagram statement, the Academy described Taracena as a “fundamental actor in Mexican cinema, whose presence on screen left an intense, honest, and profoundly human mark.”
“The Academy extends its respectful and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues,” the statement continued. “His work and his unforgettable face will remain in the memory of our cinema.”
The organisation also praised him for his “memorable” performances in the films he helped bring to life.
Highlighting his achievements, the statement noted, “He was nominated three times for the Ariel Prize—Mexico’s equivalent of the Oscars—for The Violin, Potosí, and La Carga, recognition of a career defined by absolute dedication, expressive strength, and deep commitment to his craft.”
The Academy concluded, “We stand in respect and solidarity with his family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.”
Taracena gained international recognition in 2006 for his role as Middle Eye in Mel Gibson’s Apocalypto. His film credits also include Saving Private Perez, El Violin, Sound of Freedom, and Surviving My Quinceañera.
He became widely known for his portrayal of drug smuggler Pablo Acosta in Narcos: Mexico, a series chronicling Mexico’s Guadalajara Cartel during the 1980s, which ran for three seasons between 2018 and 2021.
Taracena also appeared in the U.S. drama series Queen of the South and Netflix’s Pedal to the Metal.
