Mexican Telenovela Star Iliana de la Garza Dies at 94

MEXICO CITY, Mexico – Iliana de la Garza, a beloved Mexican actress known for her roles in telenovelas such as ‘Salomé’ and ‘Sortilegio,’ passed away on January 13, 2025, at the age of 94. The National Association of Interpreters (ANDI) confirmed her death in a social media statement but did not disclose the cause.

De la Garza’s children, Michelle and Ernesto, shared that their mother died peacefully in her sleep. “She had a respiratory arrest, but she was asleep and didn’t feel it,” Michelle said in an interview with the YouTube channel ‘Tony Stars TV.’ “She left well, she left in peace, and now she rests with my sister.” The actress had previously endured the loss of her eldest daughter, Marly, five years ago, a tragedy from which she never fully recovered.

Michelle described her mother as “a very strong woman” who faced the grieving process with resilience. The family decided to cremate De la Garza’s remains on January 15, 2025, and place them alongside Marly’s. A private funeral service was held on January 14, attended by close family and friends.

De la Garza’s children revealed that she had never discussed her final wishes with them. “We never talked about it (her last wishes), so we decided to cremate her and have her rest with my sister,” Michelle explained. The family also emphasized their commitment to supporting Mario Casillas, De la Garza’s former husband of 30 years, during this difficult time.

ANDI expressed its condolences in a formal statement, highlighting De la Garza’s contributions to Mexican television and her legacy as a respected actress. “The Board of Directors and the Vigilance Committee, on behalf of the National Association of Interpreters, deeply regret the passing of our colleague, friend, and member Iliana de la Garza,” the statement read. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, especially her husband, Mr. Mario Casillas.”

De la Garza’s career spanned decades, earning her a place among Mexico’s most cherished telenovela stars. Her passing marks the end of an era for fans and colleagues alike.