The Last Journey of Ramón Valdez: A Legend’s Final Years

In 1988, Ramón Valdez, one of the most beloved figures in Latin American television, made his final journey. As he walked through Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru, few knew that this would be the last country the actor would visit. Valdez, widely recognized for his role as Don Ramón in *El Chavo del Ocho*, was nearing the end of a painful battle with cancer. Diagnosed in the early 1980s, his illness had gradually spread from his lungs to his stomach and spine, ultimately leading to his death on August 9, 1988, at the age of 64.

Ramón Valdez’s career began long before his time in *El Chavo del Ocho*. By 1968, he had already appeared in over 45 films. His comedic timing and natural charisma made him a favorite among audiences. However, it was his collaboration with Roberto Gómez Bolaños in the show *Los Supergenios de la Mesa Cuadrada* that cemented his place in the world of television comedy. For 11 years, Valdez played various roles in Bolaños’ programs, including the iconic *Chapulín Colorado* and *El Chómpiras*. Yet, it was his portrayal of Don Ramón in *El Chavo del Ocho* that became the most memorable, with many of his colleagues noting that the character was a reflection of his real-life personality—humble, funny, and endearing.

By the late 1970s, tensions began to rise within the cast. In 1979, Valdez left the show alongside Carlos Villagrán (Kiko) after Roberto Gómez Bolaños formalized his relationship with Florinda Meza, who played Doña Florinda. Although Valdez briefly returned to *El Chavo del Ocho* in 1981, his time on the show was short-lived, and he eventually left again, possibly due to disagreements with Meza, who had gained considerable influence over the production.

After leaving *El Chavo del Ocho* for good, Valdez ventured into new projects. In 1982, he traveled to Venezuela with Villagrán to film the show *Federrico*, produced by RCTV. However, the program struggled with ratings, and Valdez only participated in its first season before returning to Mexico. Around this time, his health began to decline. A heavy smoker, Valdez was diagnosed with stomach cancer, which had metastasized by 1985. He underwent surgery to remove part of his stomach, but doctors informed him that his condition was terminal.

Despite his illness, Valdez continued to work, reuniting with Villagrán in 1987 to star in a new comedy series where he played a store manager, with Kiko as his assistant. The show marked Valdez’s final television appearance. One of the most poignant details about his last episode was that it was filmed in a cemetery, where Don Ramón’s character disappears into the fog. The scene, recorded just weeks before his death, took on an eerie significance after his passing.

Even as his health deteriorated, Valdez remained active. He toured with his circus and performed in various countries, including Peru, where his condition worsened dramatically. A photograph taken during his final trip shows him walking through the airport, visibly frail but still determined to carry on. With the support of his family, including his brother, the comedian Antonio “Ratón” Valdez, Ramón returned to Mexico, where he spent his last days.

Valdez’s death marked the end of an era in Latin American comedy. His legacy, however, lives on through the timeless humor of *El Chavo del Ocho*, a show that continues to resonate with audiences across generations. His portrayal of Don Ramón remains one of the most beloved characters in television history, a testament to his enduring talent and the joy he brought to millions.