Gabriel Prieto Dies at 65 Leaving Chilean Arts Legacy

Chilean actor Gabriel Prieto Escobar died at 65, with Chileactores confirming his death on Sunday and colleagues, former partner Andrea Zuckermann and artists mourning his career in television, theater and acting education.

According to Chileactores, Prieto was a theater and television actor, a teacher at Universidad Católica and a founder of Teatro Aparte, a company recognized for its contribution to Chilean performing arts.

"With deep sadness and pain, we regret to announce the sensitive passing of our colleague and friend, Gabriel Prieto Escobar" Chileactores said in its statement.

The organization highlighted Prieto's extensive television career, including productions such as Los Títeres, Loca Piel, Brujas, Dama y Obrero and Te doy la vida, as well as Loco por ti, La Nany and Casado con Hijos.

"On television his work is unforgettable in various series and soap operas. He participated in iconic productions such as Los Títeres, Loca Piel, Brujas, Dama y Obrero and Te doy la vida. He was also in Loco por ti, La Nany, Casado con Hijos, among others" Chileactores said.

Chileactores also recalled Prieto's health crisis in 2022, when he faced serious complications linked to COVID-19 and later shared reflections about his recovery and appreciation for life.

"I was at the threshold of death. I was raised in a Catholic family, but this has to do with universal energy and the cosmos, we are all part of something very large and I perceived that during the coma" Prieto said in an interview cited by En Cancha.

"We have to tell the people we love that we love them, there is no time to waste" Prieto said in a message highlighted by Chileactores.

Actors from Chile's entertainment industry also expressed grief after the announcement, including Sebastián Layseca, Luz Valdivieso and Mariana Loyola, who shared personal tributes on social media.

"What sadness! Rest, Gabrielito" Sebastián Layseca wrote.

"I cannot believe it, dear Gabriel" Luz Valdivieso wrote.

"Oh dear Gabo. Safe journey, teacher. I will keep your enthusiasm, your smile and your constant support. Thank you for making us play" Mariana Loyola wrote.

Andrea Zuckermann, Prieto's former partner and mother of his son Vicente, remembered his talent, generosity and support for other artists.

"Gabriel was tremendous talent, he was a brilliant mind. And the most important thing, which I am grateful for, is that fortunately he was the father of our wonderful son Vicente" Andrea Zuckermann wrote.

Zuckermann also emphasized Prieto's dedication as a colleague and mentor in the acting community.

"He was also very generous as a fellow actor, teaching and encouraging his passion for acting" Andrea Zuckermann wrote.

"And the good thing is that it was beautiful to be able to thank him in one of our last phone calls. Thank you for everything always" Andrea Zuckermann wrote.

Chileactores said details about Prieto's farewell ceremonies would be announced through its social media channels in the following hours.