Renée Victor, Iconic Actress from Pixar's 'Coco', Remembered for Impactful Career
ICARO Media Group
**Renée Victor, Beloved Voice of Pixar's 'Coco', Passes Away at 86**
Renée Victor, the talented actress recognized by many for her heartfelt role as the grandmother in Pixar's acclaimed film "Coco," has died at the age of 86. Ms. Victor passed away on Friday night at her home in Sherman Oaks, California, as confirmed by her representative. The cause of death was lymphoma.
Throughout her expansive career, Ms. Victor charmed audiences with her diverse performances across television and film. Among her notable roles was Lupita in the comedic TV series "Weeds." However, it was her work in "Coco" as the strict yet endearing grandmother that left an indelible mark on fans. "Coco," a film that delves into the adventures of a young boy transported to the land of the dead, earned wide praise, and Ms. Victor's performance resonated deeply with viewers.
Pixar expressed their sorrow over Ms. Victor's passing in a social media post, noting that they were "heartbroken" and promising, "We will always remember you," in a touching nod to the film's memorable song.
Born on July 25, 1938, in San Antonio, Renée Victor was raised in a traditional Catholic family and attended an all-girls school. Her artistic journey began early, dancing in a production of "Carmen" at the tender age of ten. Ms. Victor’s talents soon took her to Las Vegas, where she performed as a singer and dancer at the Stardust Hotel. Her career continued to flourish on international stages across Australia, Europe, and Latin America.
Ms. Victor's versatility extended beyond performance as she hosted the local talk show "Pacesetters" upon returning to Los Angeles. Additionally, she lent her skills as a translator and interpreter during the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and for the BBC.
Her film career included roles in several noteworthy projects, such as Robert Duvall's "The Apostle," "Assassination Tango," and "A Night in Old Mexico." Notably, Ms. Victor was a standout in the horror genre as well; she portrayed a beloved grandmother in "Paranormal Activity 5: The Marked Ones," a role initially intended for a far shorter screen time, but extended due to her character’s popularity with audiences.
Renée Victor also graced numerous TV shows, including recurring roles in "ER," "Dead to Me," and "Snowpiercer." In a 2017 interview about "Coco," she highlighted the film's potential to enrich the understanding of Mexican culture around the world.
Ms. Victor leaves behind a legacy rich in memorable performances and cultural contributions. She is survived by her two daughters, Raquel and Margo Victor.