Actor Angel Salazar, widely recognized for his role as Chi Chi in “Scarface” (1983), has died at the age of 68. Ann Wingsong, Salazar’s representative and longtime friend, confirmed that he passed away on August 11, 2024, at a friend’s residence in Brooklyn, New York. The news of his death has triggered a series of tributes from his friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry.
Salazar, a native of Cuba, was born in 1956 and started his acting journey in the late 1970s. His breakthrough role came with the character of Chi Chi in “Scarface,” where he played the devoted aide to Al Pacino’s Tony Montana. The film, directed by Brian De Palma and penned by Oliver Stone, became a cultural icon, and Salazar’s portrayal of Chi Chi cemented his status in Hollywood.
In “Scarface,” Salazar’s character plays a significant part, especially during the film’s gripping “chainsaw scene” where Chi Chi saves Montana’s life.
Post “Scarface,” Salazar remained active in the film and television industry. He joined forces with Pacino again in the 1993 film “Carlito’s Way,” another of De Palma’s directorial ventures. His filmography also includes “Punchline” (1988), co-starring Tom Hanks, and “Where the Buffalo Roam” (1980). In addition, Salazar made appearances in TV shows like “In Living Color” and “The New $treetz Seriez.”
Salazar was not only an actor but also a celebrated stand-up comedian known for his lively performances and signature phrase, “Sheck it out!” He featured in multiple HBO comedy specials and the NBC series “Last Comic Standing.” His acts, frequently inspired by his Cuban roots, resonated with his audience and solidified his standing in the comedy sphere.
Tito Puente Jr., the recording artist, mourned the death of Angel Salazar, praising him as an outstanding actor and a close friend. Puente Jr. emphasized that Salazar’s iconic characters and comedic genius from “Scarface” to “Carlito’s Way” will be sorely missed. Actress Kadrolsha Ona Carole also expressed her condolences, revealing she discovered the news of Salazar’s death upon returning home from filming and would miss his humorous antics and infectious laughter.
Salazar’s last performance took place at the Silver Legacy Resort and Casino in Reno, Nevada, earlier this month, where he performed from August 1 to August 4. According to Wingsong, Salazar had been coping with heart problems, including an enlarged heart, in recent years, but the precise cause of death has not been revealed.
At the time of his demise, Salazar was reprising his role as Chi Chi in “The Brooklyn Premiere,” a film helmed by Eric Spade Rivas. This project marked a reunion with his “Scarface” co-actor, Steven Bauer, and demonstrated Salazar’s undying passion for his profession and dedication to his fans.
