Héctor Carrillo, the voice that defined entertainment journalism in Mexico, dies at 70
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Mexican entertainment and culture journalist Héctor Carrillo died at age 70.
- Carrillo worked for over five decades, collaborating with prominent figures and hosting shows like "Visitando a las Estrellas."
- His death was announced by fellow presenter Maxine Woodside, who remembered him as a dear colleague.
The voice that chronicled the lives of artists, singers, and cultural figures in Mexico for over five decades fell silent this Wednesday. Héctor Carrillo, an entertainment journalist and collaborator of Maxine Woodside, died at the age of 70. Woodside announced the news on social media, sharing an emotional farewell: "Rest in peace my dear Hectorito. You have reached the arms of your beloved Amadita, your adored mother. May our Lord God receive you in His Holy Glory. Culture and I will miss you."
Carrillo spent his final moments in a hospital after being rushed in due to health issues. The official cause of death has not yet been released. Born in Mexico City, he discovered his passion at a young age, beginning his career at 15 with publications like "Púlpito" and "Mi Periodiquito de Novedades," as well as Tomás Perrín's news program. He later developed a career that made him one of the most recognized voices in the entertainment news sector.
His career spanned radio and television, including stints at XEX and XEW before joining the "Hoy Mismo" news program in 1982 to lead the entertainment section. A signature project was "Visitando a las Estrellas," where his intimate interview style distinguished him in the 1980s. His influence was such that he inspired the character Héctor Carrito, portrayed by Aleks Syntek in "Chiquilladas."
In later years, he became a regular voice on "Todo para la Mujer," working alongside Maxine Woodside for over three decades. Following the confirmation of his passing, Woodside tearfully remembered him as an endearing companion. Throughout his career, Carrillo interviewed numerous stars, including María Félix, "Cantinflas," Juan Gabriel, Vicente Fernández, Luis Miguel, Verónica Castro, Roberto Gómez Bolaños, Plácido Domingo, Leonora Carrington, Anthony Hopkins, Lucero, Yuri, Isaac Hernández, and Alondra de la Parra.
Rest in peace my dear Hectorito. You have reached the arms of your beloved Amadita, your adored mother. May our Lord God receive you in His Holy Glory. Culture and I will miss you.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.