Tributes have poured out for actor Gerardo Taracena, who has died aged 55. The actor, who famously starred in Netflix's hit crime series Narcos: México, was celebrated for helping expand the international visibility of Mexican actors throughout his three-decade career. Gerardo's death was confirmed by Asociación Nacional de Actores (ANDA); their translated statement read: "The National Association of Actors deeply regrets the passing of our colleague Gerardo Taracena. We join in mourning with his family, friends, and the artistic community. May he rest in peace."

Gerardo's work in the film and TV industry saw him move fluidly between Mexican cinema, major Hollywood productions and Spanish-speaking dramas. Following the announcement of his death, tributes poured in from fellow actors, filmmakers and heartbroken fans, as one wrote: "Huge legacy in cinema and theatre, it will always live on in our memory. RIP." As another added: "Very sad news for his family, friends, and for Mexican cinema. A great actor, versatile and with a huge future ahead."

A third fan added: "Rest in peace to an excellent actor who absolutely killed it in every role I saw him in."

"Gerardo Taracena, an extraordinary actor whom anyone who truly loves the art of acting recognises immediately," echoed another.

As his devastated pal penned: "You left us, dear friend. Way too fast and way too suddenly. It still wasn’t time. You left all of us loving you."

Gerardo built his unshakeable reputation in the industry after gaining international acclaim for his 2006 role as Ojo de Lobo in Mel Gibson's film Apocalypto.

Gerardo continued working steadily, with his most recent credit in 2025, when he appeared in the series Celda 211, and his final on-screen appearance in Cometierra, released later that year.

According to IMDb, the star was expected to feature in four upcoming productions before his tragic death. The Spanish drama, Zhai which is currently in pre-production.

While Gringo Hunter, Halcones and the film, Podcast, Rapaces Nocturnos are in post-production, which means the actor could make a posthumous appearance.