Vicente Fernández, the Mexican artist whose illustrious career as the “king of the rancheras” spanned decades in music, film and television, has died. He was 81 years old.
“Rest in peace Mr. Vicente Fernández. We regret to inform you of his death on Sunday, December 12 at 6:15 am,” read a post on the singer’s Instagram page. “It was an honor and a great pride to share with everyone a great musical career and to give everything for your audience. Thank you for continuing to applaud, thank you for continuing to sing.”
Plans for his funeral were not announced.
Fernández died in Guadalajara in his home state of Jalisco. He had been hospitalized for four months after a fall on his ranch. Fernández suffered from Guillain-Barré syndrome, which made it difficult for him to recover.
PHOTOS: Vicente Fernández through the years
Fernández was so revered that the president of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, issued a statement.
“My condolences to the family, friends and millions of admirers of Vicente Fernández, a symbol of ranchera music of our time, known and recognized in Mexico and abroad.” he said on twitter.
One of his sons, Vicente Fernández Jr., shared a photo on Instagram of the two smiling.
“Thanks for everything!!!” said the caption. “I LOVE YOU DAD.”
Fernández had numerous health problems in recent years.
In 2012, Fernández underwent complex surgery that removed almost half of his liver due to a tumor. A year later, he faced pulmonary thrombosis, and in March 2015, the singer had three hernias removed.
This year she faced allegations of sexual abuse by singer Lupita Castro. Fernández denied any inappropriate behavior.
Fernández was known as “Chente” by his fans. He has been compared to people like Frank Sinatra.
His songs of love, heartbreak and masculinity are a staple in Hispanic homes. Among them are the hits “El rey”, “Volver, Volver” and “Por tu maldito amor”.
Fernández has sold more than 65 million albums and filmed more than 35 movies. He won three Grammys and eight Latin Grammys, as well as being named Person of the Year by the Latin Recording Academy in 2002.
In 1998, Fernández received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
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