Carlos Merced, one of Puerto Rico’s most beloved and respected comedians, passed away on July 2, 2025 at the age of 62, after bravely facing a long battle with various health complications, including lung and liver cancer.
The news was confirmed by his family through social networks and quickly generated a wave of messages of mourning, recognition and affection from colleagues, artists and thousands of fans who accompanied him throughout his career of more than three decades.
A career marked by humor and authenticity
Merced was a key figure in Puerto Rican television in the 1980s and 1990s.
He achieved great popularity for his participation in programs such as “Entrando por la cocina”, “Kiosko Budweiser” and “Esto no es un show”. His intelligent, familiar and charismatic style of humor won him the hearts of the public.
Throughout his career, he has worked with major figures in Puerto Rican and Latin entertainment, including Dayanara Torres, with whom he shared the stage in the musical La Cenicienta in 1997.
The former Miss Universe recently remembered him with deep sadness and gratitude, writing in her networks: “What sadness I feel in my heart. Thank you for the laughs and that unconditional affection. Fly high.”
An exemplary fight against the disease
Carlos Merced was also an example of resilience. For the past 15 years he faced multiple health challenges.
In 2010 he underwent a liver transplant and in 2019 he received a kidney transplant. In 2023, he received a diagnosis of cancer, first lung and then metastasized to the liver.
In spite of everything, Carlos never lost his sense of humor or his will to live.
In his last publications on social networks, he asked his followers for prayers and shared positive messages, always showing an attitude of gratitude for life. Even during treatment, he kept his Carlos Merced Foundation active, dedicated to providing emotional and logistical support to patients and families facing serious illnesses.
Reactions from the entertainment world
The death of Carlos Merced provoked an avalanche of farewell messages from Puerto Rican and Latin American entertainment figures.
Actors, comedians and producers highlighted not only his artistic talent, but also his human qualities, his sense of social responsibility and his strength in the face of adversity.
Dayanara Torres, his friend and former theater partner, described him as “elegant, wise and generous”.
She also expressed her gratitude for having shared unforgettable moments on and off stage, especially during rehearsals and performances of La Cenicienta, a play that marked an entire generation of Puerto Rican families.
Carlos Merced representa la historia de muchos latinos que, aún desde el exilio o la migración, mantienen viva su identidad cultural y trabajan por su comunidad
A legacy that transcends generations
Buzzy
Carlos Merced leaves behind not only an imprint on Puerto Rican television and theater, but also a legacy of solidarity, humor and hope. His personal story has inspired many people facing similar situations, and his life example continues to be present through the community work he promoted with his foundation.
His funeral was held in the city of Orlando, Florida, where he had resided for more than a decade. Family, close friends and members of the local artistic community attended, who bid him farewell with music, prayers and anecdotes full of affection.
From Florida, he managed to continue connecting with the Puerto Rican and Latino public through his social networks, events and social aid projects.
Her life and legacy are a powerful reminder of the importance of taking care of your health, sharing from the heart and never losing the joy of life, even in the most difficult moments.
Rest in peace, Carlos Merced. Your laughter continues to enlighten those who admired you.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
