LOS ANGELES — Adan Canto, the Mexican singer and actor best known for his roles in X-Men: Days of Future Past and Agent Game as well as the TV series The Cleaning Lady, has died. He was 42.
Publicist Jennifer Allen told the Associated Press that Canto died of appeal cancer and had opted to keep his diagnosis private. Born in Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila, Mexico, and raised in Texas, Canto embarked on his career at a young age, leaving home at 16 to pursue his passion for music in Mexico City.
His journey evolved as he transitioned into acting, marking his American debut on Kevin Williamson’s 2013 Fox drama series, The Following, alongside Kevin Bacon. Among the well-known characters in Canto’s stellar resume were the mutant Sunspot in X-Men: Days of Future Past, Vice President-elect Aaron Shore on Designated Survivor, and Colombian politician Rodrigo Lara Bonilla on Narcos. Not only did he star in Halle Berry’s first feature film, “Bruised,” but he also showed off his flexibility by starring in the tense “Agent Game.”
Canto demonstrated his versatility by directing two short films in addition to his acting abilities. He was battling appendiceal cancer, yet he was still involved in Fox’s The Cleaning Lady, where he played Armand Morales. Sadly, his illness kept him from contributing to the third season’s ongoing production, but he did say he hoped to return at a later time.
Adan Canto’s amiable nature, characterized by a radiant smile and infectious laughter, endeared him to many. Kiefer Sutherland, his co-star on Designated Survivor, paid a poignant tribute on Instagram, emphasizing Canto’s unwavering commitment to his craft as an actor. Halle Berry, who shared the screen with Canto in both X-Men and “Bruised,” mourned his passing, stating that he had now gained his wings.
The heartbreaking news of Canto’s departure reverberated across the entertainment industry, prompting an outpouring of condolences from co-stars and colleagues on social media. Maggie Q extolled Canto’s character, asserting that those who had the privilege of knowing him were indeed fortunate. In contrast, Italia Ricci expressed a mix of shock and anger at the toll exacted by cancer.
Kal Penn reflected on Canto’s authentic warmth, describing him as inspiring, calming, and incredibly amusing all at once. Oliver Hudson, who costarred with Canto in The Cleaning Lady, thought back on their conversations over parenting and family, emphasizing how much Canto loved his own. Canto’s transformation from a well-known Hollywood actor to a musician in Mexico has had a lasting impact on the business. In a joint statement, Warner Bros.
Television and FOX Entertainment expressed their sadness and emphasized Canto’s strong on-screen persona, depth, breadth, and vulnerability. Fox has confirmed its intention to pay tribute to the late actor by featuring a title card when The Cleaning Lady resumes on March 5, gearing up for its third season without Adan Canto. Sean Lew, Canto’s co-star in the series, expressed gratitude for being part of the same ensemble and pledged to continue the program in Canto’s memory.
Adan Canto’s legacy transcends his cinematic achievements, encompassing the profound impact he had on countless lives through his brilliance, generosity, and humility. His departure leaves a void deeply felt by those who had the privilege of knowing him, both on and off-screen. The entertainment industry collectively mourns the loss of a remarkable individual.