Adan Canto has passed away at the age of 42. The Cleaning Lady actor, who brilliantly portrayed Arman Morales, lost his private battle with appendiceal cancer.
The loss was felt by fans and actors who worked closely with Canto on various projects, including his series Designated Survivor.
Kiefer Sutherland, who portrayed President Tom Kirkman on the drama, remembered his former co-star on Instagram, writing, “It seems lately I have had to make too many posts like this one, but I am heartbroken by the loss of Adan Canto. He was such a wonderful spirit. As an actor his desire to do well, to be great, and then do better, was truly impressive and he will be greatly missed. I am also heartbroken for his wife, Steph and his two young children. Adan, may you rest in peace.”
Italia Ricci, who starred as Emily Rhoades opposite Canto’s Aaron Shore, also paid tribute on social media with several photos of the duo on set, writing, “I’m completely lost for words. He was the strongest person I know in every sense of the word and I am so angry that this happened. No one deserved this less than this sweet, brilliant, kind, and gentle man. Fuck cancer. Fuck. I’m so sorry for everyone hurting at this devastating loss and am beyond heartbroken for his family. You’ll be in my heart always. 🤍”
The Cleaning Lady’s official Instagram account also mourned the loss of one of their own, noting, “He’ll always be our Arman. ❤️ Adan Canto, your memory will be cherished forever. We grieve alongside Adan’s family, friends, and fans.”
Another Designated Survivor star, Maggie Q, added a press shot of Canto, penning poignant words to her “beautiful friend.”
“You are the level of person that Hollywood didn’t even deserve. Kindness and warmth and generosity of spirit- total dedication to your family, and ALWAYS doing the right thing. No one had your moral compass nor did they even come close. I don’t understand this. Anyone who knew you was a lucky one. That’s all I do know. 💔,” she wrapped up in her touching post.
Kal Penn, who took on the role of Seth Wright, shared a sweet photo of the two laughing (along with many other photos from their time filming the series) as he wrote, “Absolutely heartbreaking to lose Adan Canto. He was so genuine and warm, immensely talented; such a good person who was simultaneously calm and motivating. And funny. He was very, very funny. I’m so lucky to have known you. My heart goes out to Steph, the kids, and the whole family.”
Sean Lew, who plays Chris in The Cleaning Lady, was at a loss, taking to his Instagram Stories with his thoughts.
“I’m kinda at a loss for words. A loss for thoughts. A loss for what to think. Just really lost,” he began, adding, “Adan, you were one of the coolest people I’ve ever worked with. I was honored to be your castmate. I was never in any of your scenes but I would always catch you during lunch and share a laugh with you every single time. We continue the show in honor of you and everything you’ve given us. Not a single day will go by without acknowledging what you’ve given this world. Thank you for everything and I will truly miss you.”
Shiva Negar of the FOX drama also grieved her co-star’s death, sharing a scene the two starred in together and writing, “I just can’t believe you’re gone! 😔💔 It was such a privilege to work with you. Not only you were an exceptional actor but also a kind, genuine and a true gentleman. A beacon of health and vitality.
My heart goes out to Adan’s family. May your legacy shine brightly in our memories. Rest in peace dear friend @adancanto 🙏🏻🖤 #rip #adancanto.”
Even Warner Bros. Television and Fox Entertainment released a joint statement:
“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 the Warner Bros. Television and FOX Entertainment families since his U.S. debut in The Following more than a decade ago,” it read.
“Most recently, he lit up the screen in The Cleaning Lady with a powerful performance that showcased his artistry, range, depth and vulnerability. This is an unfathomable loss, and we grieve alongside his wife Stephanie, their children and loved ones. We will miss Adan dearly.”
As of writing, Canto’s co-star and onscreen love interest Elodie Young has not released a statement, but it’s a lot to process.
Canto is survived by his wife Stephanie Ann Canto and their two very young children, 3.5-year-old Roman Alder and 1.5-year-old Eve Josephine.
RIP.