Popular 'Narcos: Mexico' Actor Dead at 55

Gerardo Taracena, who is best known for his role as Pablo Acosta in the Netflix series Narcos: Mexico and also appeared in films such as Apocalypto, The Violin, Man on Fire and Saving Private Perez, passed away over the weekend at the age of 55.

No cause of death has been provided yet. Taracena's death was confirmed on social media by the Mexican Academy of Film Arts and Sciences and the National Association of Actors.

"ANDA deeply regrets the passing of our colleague Gerardo Taracena. We join in the sorrow felt by his family, friends, and the artistic community. May he rest in peace,” the National Association of Actors said in a post.

Taracena remembered for 'intense, honest and profoundly human' impact

In a separate Instagram post, the Mexican Academy of Film Arts and Sciences paid tribute to Taracena and his impact on Mexican entertainment.

"The Mexican Academy of Film Arts and Sciences deeply regrets the passing of Gerardo Taracena, a fundamental actor in Mexican cinema, whose screen presence left an intense, honest, and profoundly human mark," the post reads.

"The Academy extends its respectful and heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. His work and his unforgettable face will remain in the memory of Mexican cinema."

More on Taracena's life and career

Taracena got his acting career off the ground while studying at the University Center of Theater in Mexico City. He made his on-screen debut in The Mexican in 2001.

In 2007, Taracena won an Ariel Award, the Mexican equivalent of the Oscars, in the category of Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Violin. He was a three-time Ariel Award nominee, which the Mexican Academy of Film Arts and Sciences called a "recognition of a career marked by absolute dedication, expressive power, and a deep commitment to his craft."