Renée Victor, the iconic actress and unforgettable voice behind Coco’s fierce yet loving Abuelita, has passed away at 86.
Her agency confirmed the heartbreaking news to TMZ, revealing that Victor died peacefully Friday night at her home in Sherman Oaks, California, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with lymphoma.
“She Was Loved By So Many Around the World”
Renée’s daughters, Raquel and Margo, released a touching statement following her death:
“Our mom was loved by so many people around the world. Those who truly knew her will always carry her memory in their hearts.”
Their message struck a deep chord with fans across generations, many of whom grew up hearing her powerful voice and watching her commanding on-screen presence.
From Latin Music Starlet to Screen Legend
Before conquering Hollywood, Renée Victor made her mark in the music world during the 1960s, performing as a singer for legendary Latin big bands. She worked with iconic musicians like Xavier Cugat and Pérez Prado, delivering dynamic performances that captured the spirit of an era.
From ‘Matlock’ to ‘The Addams Family’ — A Steady Climb in Hollywood
Victor’s acting career began in earnest in the mid-1980s. Over the next few decades, she racked up impressive credits in beloved shows like:
- Matlock
- The Addams Family
- Bob
- The Tony Danza Show
Her character work and on-screen charisma helped her stand out in an industry not always known for championing Latina actresses.
Her Most Iconic Role: Abuelita in Pixar’s Coco
Although her resume is packed with memorable appearances, Renée Victor’s most celebrated role came in 2017, when she voiced the unforgettable Abuelita in Disney and Pixar’s animated smash hit Coco.
In the Oscar-winning film, Abuelita is Miguel’s strict—but deeply loving—grandmother, fiercely protecting her family’s traditions while embodying the emotional core of the story. Victor’s warm-yet-commanding performance resonated deeply with audiences, especially within the Latino community.
Coco was not only a massive box office success, but it also became a cultural phenomenon—honoring Día de Muertos and celebrating Mexican heritage with authenticity and heart.
The film went on to win two Academy Awards, including Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song (“Remember Me”).
A Fan Favorite on ‘Weeds’
Victor also shined on the small screen as Lupita in the hit Showtime series Weeds, appearing in 22 episodes from 2005 to 2012.
As Nancy Botwin’s housekeeper-turned-unlikely-confidant, Victor brought a mix of wit, wisdom, and sarcasm to the role—quickly becoming a fan favorite.
Her ability to shift seamlessly between dramatic roles and comedic timing is what made her such a beloved figure across generations of TV lovers.
A Legacy That Will Never Fade
Whether it was through voice acting, television, film, or music, Renée Victor brought life, laughter, and love to every project she touched.
She leaves behind a lasting legacy of:
- Groundbreaking work for Latina performers
- Unforgettable characters that shaped pop culture
- A voice that crossed borders and touched hearts worldwide
🕊️ Rest In Peace, Renée Victor
Hollywood, and the world, has lost a radiant talent—but Renée Victor’s spirit lives on in every rewatch of Coco, every stream of Weeds, and every story told by those who knew her.
How will you remember Renée Victor? Share your favorite memory or role in the comments below.
Stay tuned for more tributes and exclusive updates on Hollywood legends.
