NBC and CBS Acto, at 39!

The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of Francisco San Martin, a talented actor best known for his memorable roles in two of television’s most beloved daytime dramas. San Martin, who captured audiences on both NBC’s Days of Our Lives and CBS’ The Bold and the Beautiful, passed away in Los Angeles at just 39 years old.

According to the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office, San Martin was found dead at his home on Thursday, January 16. Authorities later confirmed that his death was ruled a suicide by hanging. The news stunned colleagues, fans, and fellow actors, leaving many struggling to comprehend how someone with such a bright presence could have been silently carrying such a heavy burden.

San Martin was born in Spain and raised in a family that valued hard work and creativity. He discovered his love for performance early, first through school theater productions and later in professional training programs that helped him refine his craft. Determined to pursue his dreams, he relocated to the United States, where he faced the challenges many immigrant actors know all too well: limited opportunities, stiff competition, and the constant pressure to prove himself.

Despite the obstacles, San Martin broke through with his charm, discipline, and raw talent. His big break came with Days of Our Lives, where he stepped into the role of Dario Hernandez. Though the character’s storyline was turbulent, San Martin’s natural charisma and intensity won over viewers, quickly making him a recognizable face in daytime television.

Later, his appearance on The Bold and the Beautiful cemented his standing as a fan favorite. As Mateo, San Martin brought depth and warmth to a role that could have been one-dimensional. Viewers connected not only to his good looks but also to his ability to bring sincerity to even the most melodramatic of soap opera storylines.

Offscreen, colleagues described him as kind, humble, and deeply professional. He showed up prepared, respected the craft, and made time for younger actors who sought his advice. Directors and writers admired his dedication and his ability to adapt to the often demanding pace of soap opera production, where scripts change daily, and filming schedules are relentless.

News of his passing has left an undeniable void. Fans flooded social media with tributes, sharing clips of their favorite scenes and recalling moments when his performances made them laugh, cry, or fall in love with his characters. Many expressed not only their admiration for his acting but also sorrow that his life ended so soon.

His colleagues also shared heartfelt tributes. Several actors from Days of Our Lives posted remembrances of late-night rehearsals and behind-the-scenes conversations, while cast members from The Bold and the Beautiful highlighted his generosity of spirit and the joy he brought to the set. It was clear that San Martin was more than just a co-worker—he was a friend who left a lasting impression.

Tragically, his death has also reignited important conversations about mental health, particularly in the entertainment industry. Behind the glamour of Hollywood lies a reality where rejection, public scrutiny, and instability often take a heavy toll. While soap operas may seem like a dream job, the long hours, relentless expectations, and constant demand to deliver can leave actors with little time to care for themselves emotionally.

San Martin’s passing serves as a painful reminder that success in the public eye does not always translate to happiness behind closed doors. Mental health struggles can affect anyone, regardless of fame or fortune. Fans, friends, and advocates have emphasized the importance of compassion, openness, and creating safe spaces for conversations about depression and suicide.

In honoring San Martin’s life, many have shared not only tributes but also resources for those in need. Organizations such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and international support networks have encouraged anyone struggling to reach out and seek help, highlighting that no one should suffer alone.

For those who admired him from afar, Francisco San Martin will always be remembered as a gifted performer whose characters left lasting imprints on daytime television. For those who knew him personally, he will be remembered as a warm, gentle soul who gave his heart to his work and his friendships.

At just 39 years old, his story has ended far too soon. Yet his legacy lives on in the memories of the viewers he entertained, the colleagues he inspired, and the fans who continue to celebrate his artistry.

As the entertainment community grieves, there is a collective hope that his tragic passing might spark more honest conversations about the unseen struggles many face—and the urgent need to support one another with empathy and care.

Francisco San Martin may no longer be here, but the impact of his performances and the kindness he showed in life will not be forgotten.