Pedro Armendáriz: The Mexican film star who said goodbye to his children before his tragic end

Pedro Armendáriz, a celebrated actor of Mexican cinema's Golden Age, died by suicide in 1963 at the age of 51. His death, stemming from cancer, sent shockwaves through Hollywood and Mexico. Armendáriz was known for his striking green eyes, prominent mustache, and commanding presence on screen, starring alongside iconic actresses like Dolores del Río and María Félix.

Before his acting career, Armendáriz earned an aeronautical engineering degree in California and worked as a tour guide. He starred in numerous films directed by his friend Emilio Fernández, including "Flor Silvestre" and "María Candelaria." He also collaborated with American directors like John Ford and John Wayne.

Diagnosed with cancer in 1958, possibly linked to radiation exposure during the filming of "The Conqueror" in 1956, Armendáriz underwent treatments. By 1963, given a year to live, he returned to Mexico to bid farewell to his children, Pedro and Carmen, from his marriage to Carmelita Bohr.

His son, Pedro Armendáriz Jr., recounted in the program "Historias Engarzadas" that his father's goodbyes were implicit, conveyed through his gaze. The family respected his decision to end his life, understanding it as a personal choice, though it was deeply painful. Armendáriz Jr. stated, "We all respected it because everyone makes their own kite out of their life."