Angel Salazar, the actor best known as Chi Chi in the 1983 film “Scarface,” has died at 68. According to his representative and longtime friend, Ann Wingsong, Salazar passed away on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at a friend’s home in Brooklyn, New York. His death has led to an outpouring of tributes from friends and fellow entertainers.
Salazar was born in Cuba in 1956 and launched his acting career in the late 1970s. He became widely recognized after portraying Chi Chi, the loyal sidekick to Al Pacino’s Tony Montana in “Scarface.” Directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone, the film became a cultural touchstone, and Salazar’s performance solidified his place in Hollywood.
Salazar’s character plays a crucial role in “Scarface,” particularly during the film’s intense “chainsaw scene,” where Chi Chi helps save Montana’s life.
Following “Scarface,” Salazar continued to work in film and television. He reunited with Pacino in 1993’s “Carlito’s Way,” another De Palma-directed film. His other film credits include “Punchline” (1988), where he appeared alongside Tom Hanks, and “Where the Buffalo Roam” (1980). Salazar also appeared on television shows like “In Living Color” and “The New $treetz Seriez.”
Beyond acting, Salazar was a well-known stand-up comedian who was celebrated for his energetic performances and catchphrase, “Sheck it out!” He appeared in several HBO comedy specials and participated in the NBC series “Last Comic Standing.” His routines, often drawing from his Cuban heritage, resonated with audiences and cemented his reputation in the comedy world.
Recording artist Tito Puente Jr. expressed his sorrow over Angel Salazar’s passing, acknowledging him as an amazing actor and good friend, noting that Salazar’s characters and comedy from “Scarface” to “Carlito’s Way” will be deeply missed. Likewise, actress Kadrolsha Ona Carole shared her grief, mentioning that upon returning home from filming, she learned of the death of her close friend Angel Salazar, with whom she had worked for years, and expressed that she would miss his silly antics and cheerful laughter.
Salazar’s final performance occurred earlier this month at Reno’s Silver Legacy Resort and Casino in Reno, Nevada, where he performed from August 1 to August 4. According to his representative, the actor had been dealing with heart issues in recent years, including an enlarged heart, though the official cause of death has not been disclosed.
At the time of his death, Salazar was reprising his role as Chi Chi in “The Brooklyn Premiere,” a film directed by Eric Spade Rivas. This film reunited him with his “Scarface” co-star, Steven Bauer. This final project showcased Salazar’s enduring passion for his craft and commitment to his fans.