Actor Angel Salazar, famously known for his role as Chi Chi in the 1983 movie “Scarface,” died on August 11, 2024, at age 68. The news was confirmed by his representative and close friend, Ann Wingsong, who stated that Salazar passed away in a friend’s house in Brooklyn, New York. He was found in the bathroom after going to take a shower. His death triggered a wave of tributes from colleagues and admirers in the entertainment industry.
Salazar was born in 1956 in Cuba and started his career in acting in the late 1970s. He shot to fame after his portrayal of Chi Chi, the faithful companion to Tony Montana, played by Al Pacino, in “Scarface.” The film, directed by Brian De Palma and scripted by Oliver Stone, became a significant cultural reference, and Salazar’s role established him in the Hollywood scene.
In “Scarface,” Salazar’s character plays a pivotal part, notably in the film’s gripping “chainsaw scene,” where Chi Chi saves Montana’s life.
After “Scarface,” Salazar remained active in the film and television industry. He worked again with Pacino in 1993’s “Carlito’s Way,” another movie directed by De Palma. Among his other film roles were “Punchline” (1988), featuring Tom Hanks, and “Where the Buffalo Roam” (1980). Salazar also made appearances on television shows such as “In Living Color” and “The New $treetz Seriez.”
Apart from acting, Salazar was a renowned stand-up comedian, known for his vibrant performances and his catchphrase, “Sheck it out!” He featured in numerous HBO comedy specials and took part in the NBC series “Last Comic Standing.” His comedy routines, often inspired by his Cuban roots, resonated with audiences and solidified his reputation in the comedy circuit.
Tito Puente Jr., a recording artist, expressed his sadness over Salazar’s death, praising him as an exceptional actor and good friend. He mentioned that Salazar’s characters and comedy from “Scarface” to “Carlito’s Way” will be deeply missed. Actress Kadrolsha Ona Carole also shared her sorrow, saying that she discovered the death of her dear friend Angel Salazar after returning home from filming. She added that she would miss his playful antics and joyful laughter.
Salazar’s last performance was at the Silver Legacy Resort and Casino in Reno, Nevada, earlier this month, where he performed from August 1 to August 4. According to his representative, the actor had been battling heart-related health issues in recent years, including an enlarged heart, but the official cause of his death remains undisclosed.
In his final project, Salazar reprised his role as Chi Chi in “The Brooklyn Premiere,” a film directed by Eric Spade Rivas. The film saw him reunite with his “Scarface” co-star, Steven Bauer, demonstrating Salazar’s enduring dedication to his profession and his fans.
