James Bond actor Emilio Echevarria dies aged 80 as tributes pour in for Pierce Brosnan co-star

Emilio Echevarria, who starred alongside Pierce Brosnan in the James Bond film Die Another Day, passed away on Saturday in Mexico City.

By: irishmirror.ie

Jan 07 2025
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James Bond actor Emilio Echeva

James Bond actor Emilio Echevarria has died at the age of 80.

The news of his passing was confirmed by the Mexican Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences (AMACC) in a statement that read: "The AMACC regrets to announce the sad death of actor Emilio Echevarría, who forged an enormous career in film and theatre. He received three Ariel nominations for his participation as a supporting actor."

A cause of death has not been confirmed.

Beginning his acting career in theatre, Echevarria transitioned to film in the 1980s, landing roles in acclaimed films such as Amores Perros, Y Tu Mama Tambien, and Babel. He also played Mexican president Antonio López de Santa Anna in the 2004 production of The Alamo.

Echevarria also appeared as Cuban intelligence operative Raoul in the 2002 James Bond film Die Another Day, starring alongside Pierce Brosnan.

Echevarria started his career in accounting after studying at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. However, his passion for acting took over after a friend invited him to join a play at the age of 31, reports the Mirror.

Emilio Echevarria — Echevarria died Saturday, the Mexican Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences announced

In a 2008 interview, he reminisced about his journey into acting: "One day, when I was 31, I received a phone call from a woman friend inviting me to be in a play. She knew I wasn't an actor. I told her I worked all day at my office."

"She told me rehearsals and shows were at night. I asked no further and I took up the invitation. At the first rehearsal, I knew that that was the most pleasurable calling and work I could do."

Tributes have poured in for Echevarria, who is survived by daughter and actress Lourdes Echevarría.

Guillermo Arriaga, a prominent screenwriter, led the heartfelt messages, saying: "Sad news for those of us who loved and admired him. Emilio Echevarría has died. A tremendous actor and an even better human being. A dear friend. I had the privilege of collaborating with him on several productions. A great man."

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