Miami Vice actor Mario Ernesto Sánchez passed away on Thursday, April 10 after battling a long illness. The confirmation came from the South Florida newspaper, Diario Las Américas, through a statement by Sánchez's assistant. During his notable career, Sánchez was best known for his role as a Colombian drug lord in the British television classic , particularly in the two-part Christmas special

Mario was born in 1947 in San Antonio de las Vegas, Cuba, before coming to the United States at age 15 during Operation Pedro Pan. In 1979, the Cuban-American actor founded Hispanic theatre, Teatro Avante, in Florida. He appeared in Hollywood movies, including Invasion U.S.A. (1985) and The Specialist (1994) and playing several bit parts in Miami Vice. He appeared in five episodes of the police show as a limo driver and in the 2006 film Miami Vice as a different character.

Tributes have continued to pour in for the much-loved actor as Miami Art Promotion posted on their social media accounts: "The outstanding actor and director of Cuban origin Mario Ernesto Sánchez dies in Miami.

"His tireless work in the Cuban exile theatre, since his early arrival in the United States, has earned him the valuable work of Teatro Avante, a group he founded, as well as the Miami International Hispanic Theater Festival, with almost 40 years of experience.

"Peace to his remains and condolences to his loved ones and friends. It also serves as a well-deserved tribute to his extensive career."

Ramón A. Sánchez said: "A glory of Cuba and the theatre has left us: Mario Ernesto Sánchez. He is already with Lorca, Molière, Euripides and many more greats of the theatre. Rest in peace, Chachito, and thank you very much for your legacy." (sic)

"Sad news. Goodbye Mario Ernesto Sánchez. My condolences to his beloved children, family and friends. I will always remember how kind you were upon my arrival in Miami; your attention, your chivalry. May your soul unite with the source of light and love," actress Verónica Abruza said.