In a bittersweet moment for fans of Disney’s beloved animated film Coco, we bid farewell to the talented Mexican actress Ana Ofelia Murguía, who brought the endearing great-grandmother Mama Coco to life with her warm voice. At the age of 90, Murguía left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, leaving behind a legacy that spanned over four decades.
Mama Coco, a pivotal character in the Oscar-winning Pixar creation, Coco, played a vital role in the heartwarming tale of a young Mexican boy’s journey through the Land of the Dead to unravel family secrets and pursue his passion for music. The film beautifully captures the essence of Mexico’s rich culture, particularly during the vibrant and poignant Day of the Dead festival.
One of the most touching moments in Coco was the scene where Mama Coco and her great-grandson Miguel share a heartfelt rendition of “Remember Me.” Their voices harmonizing with lyrics like “For even if I’m far away, I hold you in my heart” and “Until you’re in my arms again, remember me” resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. This emotional connection underscored the film’s powerful exploration of the cycle of life and death, a theme central to the Day of the Dead festivities celebrated across South American countries, including Mexico.
Ana Ofelia Murguía’s passing marks the end of an era for Mexican cinema and the performing arts. Born in 1933, she received a special lifetime achievement Golden Ariel award in 2011, recognizing her outstanding contributions to stage, film, and television. Her career, spanning more than four decades, showcased her versatility and earned her accolades, including three Ariel awards for Best Supporting Actress.
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Beyond her role in Coco, Murguía’s cinematic journey included notable performances in films such as La Reina de la Noche (The Queen of the Night), where she portrayed a cabaret artist reshaping her career in Mexico after a harrowing encounter with the Nazis in Berlin. Her dedication to the craft left an indomitable imprint on the National Theater Company of Mexico, and her influence on the performing arts earned praise from the National Institute of Fine Arts and Literature.
As we reflect on the profound impact of Coco, a film that secured double Oscars in 2018 for Best Animated Film and Best Original Song, we appreciate the gratitude expressed by producer Lee Unkrich. He emphasized the film’s indebtedness to Mexico’s “endlessly beautiful culture and traditions” and highlighted the importance of representation in cinema. Coco, with its diverse and authentic characters, aimed to create a world where all children could see themselves reflected on the big screen.
Ana Ofelia Murguía’s legacy lives on through the enduring magic of Coco and her other cinematic contributions. Her departure leaves a void in the entertainment industry, but her spirit, captured in the heartfelt moments of Mama Coco, will continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring that she is fondly remembered for generations to come.
