Actor Ángel Salazar, known for his role as Chi Chi in the 1983 crime film "Scarface," was working on a new spinoff movie in the days leading up to his death at age 68.

According to a report by the Daily Mail, Salazar had been filming "The Brooklyn Premiere" when he passed away.

Director Eric Spade Rivas revealed that Salazar had appeared fatigued during shooting in New Jersey in April but had plans to continue filming in Miami later this year.

The movie, which follows a Brooklyn film director's midlife crisis as he attempts to make a Scarface parody, was set to feature Salazar alongside Steven Bauer, who played Manny Ribera in the original "Scarface."

Salazar's Health Concerns And Final Days

While the exact cause of Salazar's death has not been disclosed, it was reported that the actor had been dealing with heart problems. His confidante and representative, Ann Wingsong, informed TMZ that a friend had discovered Salazar unresponsive in bed.

The director of "The Brooklyn Premiere" paid tribute to Salazar, describing him as one of the funniest people he had ever met.

A video posted on the movie's official Instagram account showed Salazar with the cast and crew of the upcoming film, accompanied by a heartfelt message about his passing.

Salazar's involvement in this new project demonstrated his continued connection to the "Scarface" legacy, even decades after the original film's release.

Career Highlights And Memorable Roles

Salazar's portrayal of Chi Chi in "Scarface" was a defining moment in his career. In the film, his character is a criminal associate of Al Pacino's drug kingpin, Tony Montana.

Chi Chi played a crucial role in several key scenes, including coming to Montana's aid during a violent confrontation and being present during a money laundering operation.

Eric Spade Rivas, the director of Salazar's final project, shared:

Sorry to have to even post this, but this is for Ángel who passed away. Everyone that knew you loved you and will remember all of the fun you made them have and everything you taught them every joke every story about [Scarface director] Di Palma I will miss it... at least we started Scarface two.

Prior to his breakthrough in "Scarface," Salazar had appeared in several films, including "A Stranger Is Watching" (1982), "Where the Buffalo Roam" (1980), and "Boulevard Nights" (1979).

Diverse Filmography And Comedy Career

Following his role in "Scarface," Salazar continued to work in the film industry, appearing in movies such as "Sylvester" (1985), "Maniac Cop 2" (1990), and "Punchline" (1988) alongside Tom Hanks. He also reunited with "Scarface" director Brian De Palma and co-star Al Pacino in the 1993 film "Carlito's Way."

Salazar's talents extended beyond the big screen. He made appearances on various television shows, including "On Our Own," "The New $treetz Seriez," and "In Living Color." Additionally, Salazar had a background in stand-up comedy, starring in multiple HBO specials and appearing on the series "Last Comic Standing."

At the time of his passing, Salazar had 17 projects in various stages of production, according to his iMDb profile, showcasing his ongoing commitment to his craft and the entertainment industry.

Why This Story Matters

Salazar's story highlights the human aspect behind the cinematic successes. His life reminds us of the fragile balance between career demands and personal health. Additionally, it shows how artists continue to inspire and entertain, even as they face their battles.

In conclusion, Angel Salazar's final days were spent working on a project that paid homage to the film that made him famous. His unexpected passing at 68 has left a void in the entertainment industry.

Salazar's diverse career, spanning film, television, and stand-up comedy, demonstrated his versatility as a performer. His legacy, particularly his role in "Scarface," will continue to be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.