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Actor and comedian Ángel Salazar, best known for roles in the films Scarface and Carlito's Way alongside Al Pacino, has died at the age of 68, Ann Wingsong, a representative and close friend of the actor, confirmed to TMZ Sunday (August 11) night
Wingsong said Salazar "passed away in his sleep" at a friend's Brooklyn home "over the weekend." Salazar's cause of death wasn't disclosed, however, Wingsong acknowledged that the actor had a history of heart issues.
Salazar landed the breakthrough role of Chi Chi, a sidekick character to Pacinos's Tony Montana, in the cult classic Scarface early in his acting career. The actor also appeared in the films Where the Buffalo Roam, A Stranger is Watching, The Wild Life, Sylvester, Punchline and Carlito's Way, which also starred Pacino, as well as guest appearances on the television shows On Our Own, The New $treetz Seriez, Jersey Mafia Chronicles and In Living Color.
Salazar also worked as a stand-up comedian, starring in several HBO comedy specials and securing a role on the NBC series Last Comic Standing. The 68-year-old's final performance was held at Reno's Silver Legacy Resort and Casino in Las Vegas from August 1 to August 4.
"Rest in peace Angel Salazar 'Chi Chi' you were an amazing actor and good friend hermano," musician Tito Puente Jr. wrote in an Instagram post tributing the actor and comedian. "From Scarface to Carlito's Way your characters and comedy will be forever missed."