Mexican Comedian “Chespirito” Dies

The Televisa network has announced the death of iconic Mexican comedian Roberto Gomez Bolaos. He was 85 years old.

Better known as “Chespirito,” he wrote and played the homeless boy living in a barrel television character “El Chavo del Ocho.” “El Chavo” was one of Bolaos’ most famous and world recognized characters in Mexican television. The character defined a generation for millions of Latin American children.

Sources close to the matter say Bolaos passed away peacefully with family by his side in his home in Cancun, Mexico.

The nickname “Chespirito” comes from the reference Shakespeare and in Spanish, it’s meant to read as “little Shakespeare.” Bolaos was an accomplished writer.

For over 40 years, Chespirito’s comedy has made millions laugh. It has transcended many barriers and has become engraved into the minds and culture of many Latin Americans, comparable to another late world renowned Mexican comedian, Cantinflas.

Bolaos’ health had been declining in recent months. He is survived by his children and his wife Florina Meza who starred with Bolaos on his hit show.