What happened to the cast of the Mexican film “Por la libre”? This is how they look 24 years after their premiere

The Mexican film “Por la libre”, which premiered in 2000, was directed by Juan Carlos de Laca. It features a cast of talented actors who have made their mark not only in cinema, but also on Mexican television.

The film tells the story of two cousins ​​who are forced to strengthen their bond after the death of their grandfather. After his death and seeing his parents fighting only for the inheritance he left, Rocco (Osvaldo Benavides) and Rodrigo (Rodrigo Casero) escape to Acapulco to fulfill Don Rodrigo’s will: spread his ashes on the shore of the port of Guerrero.

On their journey, they will accidentally discover that their grandfather had secrets and, with the help of a young woman named Maria (Ana de la Reguera), they will learn what the late patriarch was hiding.

Two decades after its premiere, some members of its main cast are still living with successful careers, while others have sadly passed away. Find out how the film’s cast has changed:

Osvaldo Benavides as Rocco in “Por la libre”

Osvaldo Benavides has established himself as one of the most versatile actors of his generation. Originally known for his role as Nandito in the telenovela María la del Barrio, alongside Thalía, Benavides has made his way into film, television and theater.

After Por la libre, he participated in famous films such as Nicotina (2003) and Arráncame la vida (2008).

In 2014, he starred in the romantic comedy Cásese qué puede. Recently, he has been noted for his participation in series such as The Good Doctor (2021), Acapulco (2022) and in 2024 he made his directorial debut with his first film Wedding Night, in which he also starred alongside Ludwika. Palette.

Rodrigo Cachero impersonates Rodrigo in “Por la libre”

Rodrigo Cachero is a Mexican actor who started his career in Mexican soap operas such as Perla (1998) and When you are mine (2001).

In addition to his television work, he has appeared in films such as The Hidden Secret (2003) and 180º (2010), as well as hit Netflix series such as Control Z.

Currently, he is more focused on his role as a soap opera production manager. His most recent involvement in this role was in the telenovela Eternante love us, starring Marcus Ornellas and Alejandra Gil.

Ana de la Reguera is Maria in “Por la libre”

Ana de la Reguera has had an impressive career in both Mexico and the United States. After debuting in the soap opera Azul in 1996, Ana studied acting at the Lee Strasberg Theater and Film Institute in Los Angeles.

His leap into Hollywood was made with the comedy Nacho Libre (2005). Since then, he has appeared in series such as Eastbound & Down, Jane the Virgin, Goliath and Narcos.

In Mexico, he is remembered for his performance in Ladies’ Night and Así del precipicio. His role in Por la libre is one of the most memorable in his film career.

Otto Sirgo as Mr. Rodrigo in ‘Por la libre’.

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Born in Havana, Cuba, Otto Sirgo is a veteran actor who has worked primarily in soap operas and theater since the late 1960s.

With a career spanning more than five decades, Sirgo starred in more than 50 Mexican soap operas, including Wild Rose, Rebel Soul, and Amar Sin Limites.

He also participated in comedy programs and plays, establishing himself as one of the most respected actors in the Mexican artistic environment.

Pilar Ixquic Mata brings Pureza to life in ‘Por la libre’

Pilar Ixquic Mata is an actress noted for her work in theater and film. In this field she has been recognized for her performances in projects such as Venta de Garage and Elsa Schneider.

In the cinema he has participated in En el Aire and Arráncame la Vida. His talent and dedication have earned him nominations and awards in Mexican theater.

His most recent involvement was in the ViX series, A Good Divorce.

Hector Ortega played Felipe in ‘Por la libre’

Hector Ortega was an actor, director and screenwriter with a prolific career in theater and film. He was an influential figure on the Mexican cultural scene.

He trained at the UNAM University Theater Center and studied with Alejandro Jodorowsky. He participated in twenty-five films and fifty plays.

But it was soap operas that gave him the most exposure, among the most notable being Amigos x siempre and Aventuras en el tiempo. In June 2020, he died of a heart attack.