Peru awoke to a wave of shock and sorrow on Saturday, March 28, 2026, as news spread of the passing of Manolo Rojas, one of the nation's most beloved comedians and master impersonators. At age 63, Rojas died suddenly on the evening of Friday, March 27, outside his home in the Santa Catalina neighborhood of La Victoria, Lima. His death, widely reported by América Noticias and confirmed by his family and colleagues, has left a profound void in the country’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
According to initial reports from América Noticias, Rojas was found lifeless inside his truck, parked just outside his residence. Family members, devastated by the sudden event, tried to rush him to the hospital, but he was already deceased when they reached him. Police officers soon arrived, cordoning off the area as part of standard procedure. While the cause of death has not been officially confirmed, early indications suggest he may have suffered a heart attack (as reported by Trome and América Televisión). Friends and fellow entertainers, including Hernán Vidaurre, Ernesto Pimentel, Julio Zevallos, Marisol, and Marcela Luna, gathered at the scene to pay their respects, visibly shaken by the loss of a man whose laughter had become a fixture in Peruvian homes.
Born Víctor Manuel Rojas Ibáñez on November 16, 1962, in Huaral, Lima, Manolo Rojas rose from humble beginnings to become a central figure in Peruvian comedy. His career, which spanned more than 37 years, was marked by remarkable versatility. Rojas was not only a comedian but also an accomplished impersonator, actor, singer, and composer. His talents reached millions across Latin America through television, radio, theater, and live performances.
Rojas's journey began in the early 1990s, performing on the streets and in café-theater circuits alongside other rising comedians such as Miguel Barraza, Melcochita, Bettina Oneto, and Amparo Brambilla. He made his television debut on "Hola, qué tal," hosted by Román “Ronco” Gámez, before quickly establishing himself as a household name on the legendary show "Risas y Salsa." There, his uncanny ability to capture the voices, mannerisms, and quirks of public figures made him a standout performer. As reported by El Comercio Perú, his impersonations were never mere mimicry—they were nuanced, layered performances that brought humor and humanity to each character.
Some of Rojas’s most memorable impersonations included the iconic Brother Pablo (inspired by evangelist Pablo Finkenbinder), Jorge del Castillo, El Huachano, Zambo Cavero, El Tigre Tito Navarro, and Tongo. His gallery of characters became part of Peru’s comedic folklore, with audiences eagerly tuning in each week to see which new personality he would bring to life. According to Trome, his portrayal of Brother Pablo, in particular, achieved national popularity and remains etched in the collective memory of Peruvian viewers.
Rojas's influence extended well beyond television. On radio, he was a pillar of "Los Chistosos" on RPP, a program that celebrated its 33rd anniversary in 2026. Alongside Guillermo Rossini, Hernán Vidaurre, and Giovanna Castro, Rojas helped redefine political humor on the airwaves, using satire and improvisation to reflect and interpret the country’s ever-changing reality. His presence made "Los Chistosos" a daily reference point for thousands seeking both information and comic relief amid the news cycle.
His career was not limited to sketch comedy and impersonations. Rojas appeared in a wide array of television programs, including "Risas de América," "Recargados de risa," "JB noticias," "El especial del humor," and, most recently, "El Reventonazo de la Chola," where he continued to captivate audiences until his final days. He also ventured into acting, taking roles in popular series such as "De vuelta al barrio"—where he played the memorable “Muqui”—and "Al fondo hay sitio," as well as in films like "El candidato," "Cebiche de tiburón," and "El manual del pisado."
Rojas's artistic reach extended into music, where he composed and recorded more than 30 songs, including "Por enamorarme" and "Lejos de ti" (the latter in collaboration with Claudia Serpa). His work was interpreted by groups like Agua Bella and Marco Antonio Guerrero, revealing a deep connection with genres such as cumbia and bolero. This musical side, though less known, added another dimension to his creative legacy.
Throughout his career, Rojas garnered widespread recognition and respect. In 2016, he received a special honor from the United States Congress for his artistic trajectory—a testament to the impact of his work beyond Peru’s borders. His social media presence was significant as well, with over 140,000 followers (including nearly 85,000 on Instagram under the handle “manolorojasperu”), reflecting his enduring popularity with both older and younger generations.
Despite his professional triumphs, Rojas faced personal hardships. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he lost his brother and representative, a loss that deeply affected him but did not diminish his commitment to his audience. In 2022, he opened a countryside restaurant in his hometown of Huaral, reaffirming his ties to his roots and his desire to give back to the community that nurtured him.
Rojas’s impact on the world of comedy was profound. He set a standard for excellence in impersonation and satire, inspiring countless younger comedians to pursue their craft with the same dedication and artistry. As El Comercio Perú noted, "El cariño del público me mantiene joven" (“The public’s affection keeps me young”), he once reflected—a sentiment that resonated with everyone who watched him perform. His mastery was not just in making people laugh, but in using humor as a tool for social commentary and cultural reflection.
The outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and the broader entertainment community speaks to the indelible mark Rojas left on Peruvian culture. His legacy will live on in recordings, characters, and the memories of those who tuned in week after week, year after year. For future generations of comedians, his career stands as both a roadmap and an inspiration—a reminder that laughter, at its best, bridges divides and brings people together.
As Peru mourns, it also celebrates a life that shaped the nation’s sense of humor and collective identity. Manolo Rojas’s laughter, characters, and songs will echo long after his passing, ensuring that his spirit remains a vital part of the country’s artistic soul.