Renowned Colombian actor Kepa Amuchastegui, widely remembered for his role as Don Roberto Mendoza in the iconic telenovela “Yo soy Betty, la fea”, passed away on May 27, 2025 at the age of 84, due to a bladder cancer he was diagnosed with months earlier.
Born on December 9, 1941 in Bogota, Colombia, Kepa Amuchastegui had a prolific career in theater, film and television and one of his emblematic roles came with “Yo Soy Betty La Fea”.
Kepa Amuchastegui: An Outstanding Artistic Career
His portrayal of Don Roberto Mendoza, Armando Mendoza’s father and honorary president of Ecomoda in “Yo soy Betty, la fea”, consolidated him as an endearing figure in Latin American television.
In addition to this role, she participated in productions such as “La Pola”, “La nieta elegida” and “María Magdalena”, demonstrating her acting versatility.
Fight against bladder cancer
In April 2025, Amuchastegui shared through his social networks that he had been diagnosed with bladder cancer.
He disclosed that, after experiencing symptoms such as hematuria (blood in the urine), he underwent surgery in December 2024 to remove a malignant tumor.
However, the disease had advanced, affecting one of his kidneys as well, requiring the placement of a nephrostomy to drain the urine.
Due to the deterioration of his health, the actor announced his retirement from acting and requested financial support for medical expenses.
Farewell and legacy
Amuchastegui’s family reported his passing through his official Instagram account, noting that he departed “with a slow and serene breath.”
The wake was held on May 28 at the Candelaria Funeral Hall in Bogota, where relatives and admirers were able to pay tribute to him.
His departure has generated numerous expressions of affection and recognition from colleagues and followers.
Jorge Enrique Abello, who played his son in “Yo soy Betty, la fea”, said: “Dear Kepa, goodbye until eternity. Everything I learned from you I keep in my heart”.
Varios actores de la telenovela utilizaron sus redes sociales para despedirse de Kepa Amuchastegui
A role model for the Hispanic community in the U.S.
Para la comunidad hispana residente en Estados Unidos, la vida y carrera de Kepa Amuchastegui representan un ejemplo de dedicación y pasión por el arte.
Su legado perdurará en las generaciones que crecieron viendo sus interpretaciones y en aquellos que encontraron en sus personajes una conexión con sus raíces culturales.
La memoria de Kepa Amuchastegui vivirá en la historia de la televisión latinoamericana y en el corazón de quienes lo admiraron.
Entérate de más en ‘QueOnnda.com’
