Roel Navarro, an American actor recognized for his appearances in a range of television shows and films, garnered acclaim for roles in notable productions such as Bosch, Empire, and Mayans M.C. Notably, he portrayed Enrique Rios, a formidable cartel crime boss, in the pilot episode of Training Day, engaging in a memorable shootout scene opposite Bill Paxton. Tragically, Navarro passed away on October 7, 2021, at the age of 68. This article delves into his life, career, and the impactful roles he brought to the screen.
Early Life and Education
Born on February 16, 1953, in Los Angeles, California, Roel Navarro hailed from a Mexican heritage and was raised in a bilingual environment. His formative years were spent at John Marshall High School, where his passion for acting and music first took root. Navarro continued to pursue his artistic endeavors at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he pursued a major in theater arts while also delving into voice, dance, and martial arts disciplines.
Acting Career
Navarro embarked on his acting journey in the late 1970s, securing minor roles in television series including CHiPs, The Incredible Hulk, and Quincy M.E. His presence extended to a recurring character, portraying the Fugitive Drug Dealer in Unsolved Mysteries in 1995. Venturing into the realm of cinema, Navarro marked his film debut in 1980 with a portrayal of a gang member in The Octagon, alongside Chuck Norris. His cinematic repertoire further expanded with roles in films like The Essence of Depp, 5th of July, and On Killer Robots.
The turning point in Navarro’s career arrived in 2017 with his portrayal of Enrique Rios, a formidable cartel leader, in the pilot episode of Training Day, a television adaptation of the eponymous 2001 film. Notably, his riveting performance featured a memorable showdown opposite Bill Paxton, who portrayed a corrupt police officer. Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and Warner Bros. Television for CBS, the episode marked a significant milestone. However, tragedy struck with Paxton’s untimely demise shortly after its airing, leading to the series’ cancellation after a single season.
Undeterred, Navarro continued to make strides in television, securing roles in acclaimed series such as Jane the Virgin, Empire, Goliath, and Chicago P.D. Notably, he portrayed Mateo Sr., the protagonist’s father, in Sunnyside, a comedy series created by Kal Penn. Navarro’s most recent portrayal was that of Pavia, the Vice President of the Mayans M.C., Tucson Charter, in the FX drama series Mayans M.C., a spin-off of Sons of Anarchy, where he featured in eight episodes spanning from 2019 to 2021.
Personal Life and Death
Navarro shared a bond of matrimony with Yvonne Valadez, an actress who portrayed his on-screen wife in Mayans M.C. The couple was blessed with two children, a son and a daughter. Beyond his acting pursuits, Navarro showcased his talents as a singer and songwriter, gracing various venues and events with his performances. A devoted fan of music icons like Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley, Navarro often paid homage to them through his musical endeavors, displaying proficiency in guitar, piano, and drums.
Tragically, Navarro passed away on October 7, 2021, at his Los Angeles residence. While the exact cause of his demise remained undisclosed, reports suggested he had been grappling with a prolonged illness. At the time of his passing, Navarro was 68 years old. He is survived by his wife, children, and a circle of cherished family members and friends. Honoring his wishes, Navarro was cremated, and his ashes were dispersed into the Pacific Ocean.
Legacy and Influence
Navarro’s repertoire as an actor was multifaceted, allowing him to seamlessly embody a spectrum of characters ranging from antagonists to protagonists, and from comedic to dramatic roles. Renowned for his magnetic charm, innate talent, and unwavering professionalism, Navarro garnered acclaim across various genres. Beyond his acting prowess, he channeled his passion and creativity into music and performance, serving as a beacon of inspiration to many. Remembered fondly as a devoted husband, father, and friend, Navarro’s enduring smile endeared him to all who knew him. His legacy, characterized by indelible performances and heartfelt melodies, ensures his presence will resonate with audiences for generations to come.
