Born Xavier López Rodríguez but better known by his stage name, Chabelo was an actor, comedian, and TV show host beloved by generations of viewers. His best known work was “En Familia con Chabelo,” a family variety show that ran from 1967 to 2015. The show’s 48-year run made Chabelo a well-known personality to multiple generations of Latin American families and a mainstay of Sunday morning television.
- Died: March 25, 2023 (Who else died on March 25?)
- Details of death: Died in Mexico City at 88 of abdominal complications.
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Early Career
Xavier Lopez was born in Chicago but spent his adolescence with his family in Mexico. As a U.S. citizen, he was drafted and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, moving into television after being discharged. At first, he was an assistant for the Televisa network, but when given chances to fill in for actors in a scene, he always took them. He soon created the Chabelo character, which drew him enough attention so that he became a major spokesperson for Pepsi Cola throughout Mexico, and Central and South America. For a time, he couldn’t get more acting work because he was so strongly associated with Pepsi brand.
A Television Mainstay
In the 1960s, Chabelo negotiated his way back onto TV and launched “En Familia con Chabelo.” The show was intended to be a way to bring families together on Sunday mornings. It worked. The program’s mix of interactive games, contests, music, and prizes made it a participatory experience for countless families. Chabelo dressed as and acted the part of a child well into late adulthood, a creative decision that proved influential on Mexican TV, with many other hosts adopting the same approach. His consistency and longevity made him a television icon who is remembered fondly by millions of viewers.
Tributes to Chabelo
Full Obituary: Associated Press via NPR
