‘Scarface’ actor ángel Salazar dead at 68
Actor Angel Salazar, best known for his role as Chi Chi in the hit 1983 film “Scarface,” has died at age 68.
Salazar “passed away in his sleep” at his friend’s home in Brooklyn, “over the weekend,” his rep Ann Wingsong confirmed to TMZ.
A friend went to check on the actor Sunday morning, and found his body in his bed.
An official cause of death has not been revealed, however Wingsong said that Salazar suffered from several heart issues.
The actor, who was born in 1956, landed the role of Chi Chi — the sidekick to Al Pacino’s iconic Tony Montana character — early on his career.
The ganger blockbuster also starred Michelle Pfeiffer as Elvira Hancock, Montana’s mistress who ultimately becomes his wife, as well as Steven Bauer, who played Montana’s partner-in-crime Manny Ribera.
The film became an instant cult classic, and earned Pacino a Golden Globe nomination for best actor.
Salazar also appeared in several other films, including the 1980 film “Where the Buffalo Roam,” 1982’s “A Stranger is Watching,” and the 1984 film “The Wild Life.”
The following year, he appeared in “Sylvester,” as well as the 1988 film “Punchline,” before securing a role on another hit film, 1993’s “Carlito’s Way,” which also starred Pacino.
Salazar also appeared in several TV shows, including “On Our Own,” “The New $treetz Seriez,” “Jersey Mafia Chronicles,” and “In Living Color.”
The actor also boasted a background in stand-up comedy, and went on to star in several HBO comedy specials.
He was best known for coining the catchphrase, “Sheck it out!”
Salazar also secured a returning role on the NBC series “Last Comic Standing.”
His final performance was held earlier this month at Reno’s Silver Legacy resort and casino in Las Vegas. Salazar performed from August 1 to August 4.
News of the actor’s death saw many of his friends and fellow comedians rush to social media to pay tribute.
Recording artist Tito Puente wrote, “Rest in peace Angel Salazar ‘chichi’ you were an amazing actor and good friend hermano. From scarface to carlito’s way your characters and comedy will be forever missed.”
Meanwhile, actress Kadrolsha Ona Carole wrote, “Got home from filming to find out my dear close friend Angel Salazar passed away. Angel and I worked together for years.”
‘I will miss his silly antics and cheerful laughter. Super sad. Love you my friend. May you rest in peace,” she added.
Comedian Auggie Smith wrote, “R.I.P. Angel Salazar. I watched him absolutely murder one night at The Icehouse. He crushed for 90 straight minutes right after I had ate it. I would’ve loved to blame my set on the crowd but Angel made that impossible.”
“RIP to my friend Angel Salazar. Worked together a few months ago. Comedy legend,” comedian Adam Hunter wrote.
