Mexican actor Adan Canto, best known for his roles in "Designated Survivor" and "X-Men: Days of Future Past," has passed away at the age of 42 due to appendiceal cancer, as confirmed by his publicist Jennifer Allen in an emailed statement.
Canto, born in Mexico and raised in Texas, portrayed the pyrokinetic mutant Sunspot in the 2014 film "X-Men: Days of Future Past," earning an Oscar nomination for best achievement in visual effects in 2015.
Adan Canto, best known for his roles in "Designated Survivor" and "X-Men: Days of Future Past," died Monday after a battle with appendiceal cancer. https://t.co/u08PZEffN4
— Democrat & Chronicle (@DandC) January 10, 2024
He also starred in the 2020 sports drama "Bruised," directed by Halle Berry, who expressed her grief on Instagram, stating, "I don’t have the words just yet… but my dear sweet friend Adan just gained his wings."
Embarking on his career at the age of 16 as a singer-songwriter, Canto transitioned to acting, making his TV debut on the 2009 Mexican series "Estado de Gracia" before joining Kevin Williamson’s drama series "The Following."
His television repertoire included notable appearances in "Designated Survivor," "Narcos" and "Blood & Oil."
Beyond his acting prowess, Canto delved into filmmaking, directing his debut short film "Before Tomorrow" in 2014 and the 2020 film "The Shot," which earned him the jury prize for best narrative short at the San Antonio Film Festival.
Kiefer Sutherland, Canto's co-star on "Designated Survivor," paid heartfelt tribute on Instagram, saying, "I am heartbroken by the loss of Adan Canto... his desire to do well, to be great, and then do better, was truly impressive."
In addition to Berry's earlier acknowledgment, Canto is survived by his wife and creative partner, Stephanie Ann Canto, and their two children, Roman Alder, aged 3, and 1-year-old Eve Josephine.
The actor's publicist, Jennifer Allen, shared, "Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew... He will be greatly missed by so many."
The entertainment community mourns the loss of a talented artist, and fans remember Canto's contributions to film and television.
