Margalida Castro, a beloved figure across generations and known for her tireless energy and brilliant career, passed away on December 19, 2024, at the age of 82, after valiantly fighting cancer.
Just three weeks prior to her death, Castro posted on her Instagram account, @margalidacastrooficial, conveying her gratitude and excitement for her 82nd birthday celebrated with her daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. At the time, her message seemed like a heartfelt birthday celebration, but it now resonates as poignant farewell, imbued with deep significance.
The news of her passing left a significant void within the Colombian artistic community. Beyond her successful roles in popular productions such as Yo amo a Paquita Gallego, Música, maestro, and Caballo viejo, where she portrayed unforgettable characters like Tía Chavela, Elida Pérez, and Sietelenguas, Margalida was more than just an actress. She was also talented as a writer, having published four books, with her fifth remaining unfinished.
Born on November 19 in San Gil, Santander, she initially studied architecture and played the classical flute until a robbery incident left her severely injured, interrupting her musical career during the 1980s. Instead of being discouraged, she sought new avenues of expression, discovering her passion for acting which began with her debut in 1967's La tercera palabra. Her career gained momentum swiftly, enriching Colombian television with numerous memorable characters over the decades.
Margalida was affectionately known as la abuelita de Colombia during her time on MasterChef Celebrity, embodying the spirit of the nation. Her unwavering faith and relentless spirit stood as testaments to her character, leaving behind both artistic and familial legacies.
On Thursday, December 19, very little was known about Castro's deteriorated health. Her manager, Claudia Serrato, shared the news on social media, sharing the heartbreaking details of Castro's passing, noting, “With deep sadness, I inform you... my grand actress and friend Margalida Castro has passed away, victim to cancer recently diagnosed.”
Claudia Serrato, who had worked with Castro, referred to her as “the Monirri of my soul,” exemplifying their close relationship and Castro's reputation as “the lady actress.” She highlighted Castro's remarkable 60-year career, stating, “She left us unforgettable characters throughout her long-standing presence as one of Colombia’s cultural bastions.”
Margalida Castro rose to fame through memorable portrayals such as Sussy Borda de Lavalle, Doña Custodia, and her charming character Elida Pérez among many others. The deep impact of her roles has left fans reminiscing about the joy she brought through her performances.
Details surrounding Castro's health reveal she was diagnosed with cancer only weeks before her passing, indicating it was already quite advanced. Sources indicated the cancer had metastasized to her pancreas and liver. According to reports, she had been admitted to a Bogotá clinic for palliative care after her diagnosis, with the rapid progression of her illness preventing aggressive treatment.
Keeping her illness private, only her closest family and friends were aware of her health struggles. Following her last birthday celebration, which occurred shortly before returning to Bogotá from Chile, Castro's condition took a turn for the worse. Her last Instagram post spoke of gratitude and love shared with family, “the precious captain of the skies intervened for my 82nd birthday to be spent with my daughters and grandchildren!”
The sudden loss of Castro caught many off-guard, even among her family and colleagues who were unaware of the severity of her condition. Prominent entertainment journalist Carlos Ochoa, who shared memories of her spirit, emphasized her faith during her fight with cancer, describing how she remained hopeful, rooted deeply to her religious beliefs as she awaited new opportunities.
A farewell service for Margalida Castro is scheduled for tomorrow at 2 PM at the Santa Teresita Church located at Calle 43a #18a-31, Bogotá. Family and friends from across the country are expected to pay their respects and celebrate her life.
Margalida Castro's legacy will undoubtedly endure within the hearts of many who cherished her performances and admired her incredible resilience throughout her life. A true icon whose contributions to both the entertainment world and her family will never be forgotten.
