Enrique Espejo, the Peruvian comic actor known to generations of viewers as 'Yuca', died on Friday, September 11, 2026, at the age of 75. His death was confirmed by fellow comedian Jorge Benavides, who paid tribute to him in a farewell message.
News of his passing shook colleagues from the world of comedy as well as the audiences who followed his appearances on Peruvian television for years. Espejo built a long career on the small screen and won viewers' affection through his characters and comic bits across several humor programs.
His death has left deep sadness among those who shared the stage with him and among fans who remember him as one of the most recognizable figures in Peruvian comedy.
Television career
Espejo first found popularity on Peruvian television through his role on 'Risas y Salsa'. He later joined the cast of 'JB el Imitador' and 'JB Noticias', working alongside Jorge Benavides, one of Peru's best known comedians and television producers.
He also appeared in 'La Paisana Jacinta' and 'Los Inimitables'. Throughout his career, Espejo remained closely tied to Benavides's productions, taking part in 'El Especial del Humor', 'JB en Willax' and 'El Wasap de JB', where he stayed from 2017 to 2019. He later joined the cast of 'JB en ATV'.
Beyond television, 'Yuca' also worked in film, appearing in 'Asu Mare 2' and 'La Paisana Jacinta en Busqueda de Wasaberto', broadening his career as a comic actor.
Recent health struggles
In recent years, Espejo's health had become a source of concern for his fans and colleagues. In March 2025, the comedian suffered a serious fall that led to his hospitalization and later his transfer to an intensive care unit.
He managed to leave intensive care, and people close to him reported that he was recovering, but his health remained delicate afterward. During that period, fellow entertainers publicly voiced concern about his condition and asked the public to keep him in mind as he recovered.
Espejo ultimately died on Friday, September 11, 2026, at the age of 75. Jorge Benavides confirmed the news and dedicated a farewell message to the comic actor, recalling their years working together.
