Medical examiners have determined the cause of death of actor Angel Salazar, who played Al Pacino’s soldier Chi Chi in the 1983 film “Scarface,” following his death at age 68 two months ago.
Salazar’s death was the result of a cocaine overdose, an official with New York’s chief medical examiner said. TMZ on Thursday.
Authorities said Salazar’s death was due to acute intoxication from a combination of cocaine; the muscle relaxant cyclobenzaprine; and the antihistamine diphenhydramine.
The death of the Cuban-American actor was declared accidental, according to the medical examiner.
Medical officials told the outlet that the actor also battled hypertensive cardiovascular disease and arteriosclerosis.
Forensic doctors have determined the cause of death of actor Ángel Salazar after his death at the age of 68 two months ago. Photographed in New Jersey in April.
Salazar played soldier Chi Chi in director Brian De Palma’s 1983 film Scarface.
The actor’s representative and confidant, Ann Wingsong, said TMZ On August 11, Salazar, who had been having heart problems, died in his sleep at a friend’s house in Brooklyn, New York.
Wingsong told the outlet that a friend checked on Salazar and found him lifeless in bed.
Salazar played a criminal associate of Pacino’s drug lord Tony Montana in the film, which also starred Michelle Pfeiffer, Steven Bauer, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio and F. Murray Abraham, as well as the late actors Paul Shenar and Robert Loggia.
Salazar had appeared in films such as 1982’s A Stranger Is Watching, 1980’s Where the Buffalo Roam, 1979’s Walk Proud and 1979’s Boulevard Nights before his career-defining role in Brian De Palma’s film.
In the film’s story, Chi Chi came to Montana’s aid after he was attacked with a chainsaw in the middle of a drug deal gone bad.
Chi Chi was also sitting next to Montana during a scene where the crime boss was caught laundering money.
Chi Chi’s character dies during the film’s famous final confrontation, when he was shot in the back in the middle of an attack by a group of attackers from Scarface’s rival, Alejandro Sosa.
Other notable films in which Salazar appeared were 1985’s Sylvester; Police Maniac 2 from 1990; and 1988’s Punchline with Tom Hanks; Hot at the Trot, 1988; and the 1993 film Carlito’s Way, a reunion with De Palma and Pacino.
Salazar’s death was the result of a drug overdose, a New York chief medical examiner’s official said. Photographed last year in New Jersey.
Salazar’s character, Chi Chi, was photographed alongside Pacino’s Tony Montana in the 1983 crime film during a scene in which the crime boss was caught laundering money.
The actor and comedian was photographed in New York in March 2012.
He also made several appearances on television shows such as On Our Own, The New $treetz Seriez, Jersey Mafia Chronicles and In Living Color.
Salazar also had comedy experience, having starred in multiple specials for HBO and appearing in the series Last Comic Standing.
According to iMDb, Salazar had 17 assorted projects in various stages of production at the time of his death.
Salazar was warmly remembered by his friends and colleagues following the news of his passing, with many taking to X/Twitter to pay tribute to the late artist.
Tito Puente, recording artist and band leader, said: ‘Rest in peace Ángel Salazar “chichi”, you were an incredible actor and a good friend brother.
“From ‘Scarface’ to ‘Carlito’s Way,’ your characters and comedy will be forever missed.”
Actress Kadrolsha Ona Carole said: “I came home after filming to discover that my dear friend Ángel Salazar had passed away. Ángel and I worked together for years.
‘I will miss his silly antics and cheerful laughter. Super sad. I love you my friend. May you rest in peace.’
Salazar also had experience in stand-up comedy, having starred in multiple specials for HBO and appearing in the series Last Comic Standing.
Salazar was warmly remembered by friends and colleagues following news of his passing in August, with many taking to X/Twitter to pay tribute to the late artist.
Comedian Auggie Smith wrote: ‘RIP Ángel Salazar. I saw him absolutely murder one night at The Icehouse.
‘It was squished for 90 minutes straight right after I ate it. I would have loved to blame the audience for my performance, but Angel made that impossible.’
Comedian Adam Hunter said: ‘Rest in peace to my friend Ángel Salazar.’ We worked together a few months ago. Comedy legend.’
