Adan Canto, known for his roles in FOX’s “The Cleaning Lady,” “The Following,” and “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” has passed away at the age of 42.
Canto’s death on Monday was confirmed by his team to TooFab, revealing he had been privately battling appendiceal cancer.
Famous for his role in the first two seasons of “The Cleaning Lady,” Canto’s health issues had prevented him from participating in the initial filming of Season 3, which started in December. However, he had plans to return to the show later in the season. Deadline reports that the upcoming Season 3 premiere will feature a tribute card in his honor. “Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever,” his representatives stated. “He will be greatly missed by so many.”
Canto is survived by his wife Stephanie Ann Canto, described as his “wife, best friend and creative partner,” and their two young children, Roman Alder, aged 3 ½, and Eve Josephine, aged 1 ½.
Warner Bros. Television and FOX Entertainment expressed their sorrow, stating, “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Adan Canto. A wonderful actor and dear friend, we were honored to have him as part of our families since his U.S. debut in ‘The Following’ over a decade ago.” They praised his performance in “The Cleaning Lady,” highlighting his “artistry, range, depth, and vulnerability.” They extended their condolences to his family, adding, “We will miss Adan dearly.”
Canto’s career began in Mexico as an actor and musician. His breakthrough role was as Paul Torres in the 2013 series “The Following,” followed by his portrayal of Sunspot in “X-Men: Days of Future Past” in 2014. He also starred in “Blood & Oil” and “Designated Survivor.”
Kal Penn, Canto’s co-star in “Designated Survivor,” paid tribute on Instagram, describing Canto’s death as “absolutely heartbreaking.” He remembered Canto as “genuine and warm, immensely talented; such a good person who was simultaneously calm and motivating. And funny.”
Halle Berry, who worked with Canto in “X-Men: Days of Future Past” and her directorial debut “Bruised,” also mourned his passing on social media, writing, “I don’t have the words just yet … but my dear sweet friend Adan just gained his wings. Forever, forever in my heart ?? ?”
