Angel Salazar, the Cuban-American actor famous for portraying Tony Montana’s loyal friend Chi Chi in the 1983 crime film “Scarface,” has passed away at age 68. Salazar’s representative, Roger Paul, confirmed the actor’s death to Variety magazine on August 11, 2024.
Salazar is most remembered for his unforgettable performance as Chi Chi in “Scarface.” In the Brian De Palma film, Chi Chi helps Montana, played by Al Pacino, survive a confrontation with chainsaws. He also bravely defends Montana’s compound from attackers with a submachine gun during the climactic shootout. Despite running out of ammunition, Chi Chi fights to the end to protect his friend.
Born in Cuba, Salazar moved to New York City as a young man. He developed his comedy skills in the city’s clubs before starting an acting career spanning both film and television. While Chi Chi made him famous, Salazar appeared in other major movies such as “Punchline” with Tom Hanks and “Carlito’s Way” again with Pacino.
On television, Salazar had roles on popular shows like “In Living Color” and more recently in “Jersey Mafia Chronicles.” Throughout his life, he continued performing stand-up comedy up until just a month before his death at age 68. Salazar broke barriers for Cuban-American entertainers in Hollywood and showed his versatility across genres.
Fans and colleagues remember Salazar not only for his most iconic “Scarface” role but for his contributions to comedy and representation of Cuban-Americans. Though sadly gone, his legacy lives on through countless memorable performances that have forever impacted American popular culture.
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