Francisco Cuoco, Iconic Brazilian Actor, Dies at 91 in São Paulo

São Paulo, Brazil — Francisco Cuoco, a celebrated figure in Brazilian television, died on Thursday, June 19, at the age of 91. He passed away at Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo, where he had been hospitalized for the past 20 days due to health complications.

Born on November 29, 1933, in the Brás neighborhood of São Paulo, Cuoco made a significant impact on Brazilian arts over his 60-year career, encompassing theater, film, and television. He was known for his roles in popular telenovelas such as “Selva de Pedra” (1972) and “Pecado Capital” (1975), both of which established him as a leading heartthrob of his time.

The cause of death was multi-organ failure, according to family sources. His funeral is scheduled for Friday, June 20, at a local funeral home and will be attended only by family and close friends.

Cuoco began his artistic journey as a child, turning a vacant lot into his stage. He initially pursued a law degree but shifted to studying drama at a prominent arts school in São Paulo. He graduated in 1957 and joined notable theater companies, including the Brazilian Comedy Theater, and gained recognition in the early 1960s.

His television debut came in the 1960s, starting with the program “Grande Teatro Tupi” and starring in his first telenovela, “Marcados pelo Amor,” in 1964. Cuoco joined Globo in 1970, where he played memorable roles, notably as the romantic leads written by acclaimed novelist Janete Clair.

Walcyr Carrasco, a celebrated playwright, reflected on Cuoco’s legacy, stating, “Today, we lost one of the greatest actors in our television. Francisco Cuoco was an icon who inspired generations. His absence will be deeply felt by everyone who admired his work.”

Cuoco’s performances often blended charm and depth, and he was regarded for his unique characters that resonated with audiences. Among his other works were notable series including “O Astro” (1977) and more recent roles in “Sol Nascente” (2016) and “Segundo Sol” (2018).

Despite struggling with health issues in recent years, including difficulties with mobility, Cuoco remained active until 2023, when he made a guest appearance in the series “No Corre.” He leaves behind three children: Rodrigo, Diogo, and Tatiana, who visited him in the hospital shortly before his passing.

Cuoco’s contributions to Brazilian arts have left a lasting legacy, and his influence will be remembered by both fans and fellow artists as one of the greats in the industry.