Ana Ofelia Murgua, the Mexican actress who voiced Mama Coco, has died at the age of 90.
Murgua played the grandmother in the award-winning animation, which chronicles a Mexican boy’s journey to the Land of the Dead as he discovers family secrets on his quest to become a musician.
The film masterfully depicts the essence of Mexican culture and Day of the Dead rituals.
Murgua’s death was mourned by Mexico’s National Institute of Fine Arts and Literature, which emphasized her substantial contributions to the country’s performing arts.
One of the film’s most moving scenes was when Mama Coco and her great-grandson Miguel sang “Remember Me” together, bringing a meaningful element to the story.
Murgua, who was born in 1933, earned a special lifetime achievement award in 2011 for her extraordinary career spanning over 40 years on stage, film, and television.
Her contribution to the Mexican film industry was further recognized when she earned the best supporting actress award three times at the Ariel awards.
Coco, which won two Academy Awards in 2018 for best animated feature and best original song, was praised for its portrayal of Mexican culture.
Producer Lee Unkrich thanked Mexico and emphasized the need for diversity representation in children’s films.
Prayers up for the family.
