Mexican Actor Ana Ofelia Murguía, Who Voiced Mama Coco, Dies At 90

Ana Ofelia Murguía, a revered actor from Mexico recognised globally for her role as Mama Coco in the animated film Coco, passed away at the age of 90, as confirmed by Mexico's National Institute of Fine Arts. Her exact place of death was not specified. Renowned for her illustrious acting career, she was described by the National Theater Company as one of Mexico's finest actors. Lucina Jiménez López, the director of the National Institute of Fine Arts, lauded her career as one that significantly shaped an entire era.

Mexico's National Institute of Fine Arts and Literature disclosed the passing of the Mexican actor on December 31. The company wrote in a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter), "With deep sadness, we regret the sensitive death of the leading actress Ana Ofelia Murguía." They added that Murguía "was part of the stable cast of the National Theater Company, whose career was vital for the performing arts of Mexico." "We send condolences and warmly hug his family and friends," the statement concluded. 

Coco Actor Ana Ofelia Murguía Dead At 90

In the acclaimed 2017 Disney-Pixar film Coco, Murguía portrayed the pivotal character Mama Coco, the great-grandmother of the protagonist Miguel. The emotional resonance of the movie's climax revolved around their rendition of the song Remember Me.

Coco garnered widespread acclaim for its portrayal of Mexican culture and handling of profound themes like death within a children's movie, securing Oscars for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song. While the movie introduced Murguía to a global audience, she was already a distinguished figure in Mexico.

Who Was Ana Ofelia Murguía

Born in Mexico City on December 8, 1933, Murguía embarked on her acting journey after studying at Mexico's National School of Theatre Arts. Her acting career commenced in 1954, and she appeared in her first film, Transit, in 1964.

Over her career, spanning 70 plays and 90 films, she showcased her versatility, often portraying antagonistic roles. Her talent earned her numerous accolades, including three Ariel awards for Best Supporting Actress and a Golden Ariel Lifetime Achievement award in 2011.

In April 2023, she received the Ingmar Bergman Medal from the National Autonomous University of Mexico, commemorating her lasting impact on Mexican film and theatre.

Details about her survivors were not immediately available. Murguía's legacy endures as an iconic figure in Mexican cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry both in her homeland and across the globe.