Los Angeles — Francisco San Martin, the Spanish-born actor whose performances captivated daytime television audiences for years, has died at the age of 39. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed his death on January 16, ruling it a suicide by hanging. The news has left friends, family, colleagues, and fans in shock, as San Martin’s bright talent and vibrant presence had made him a recognizable face in households across the country. Those who worked with him remember a deeply committed performer with a warm personality, a quick sense of humor, and a passion for the craft of acting that few could match.
Born in Mérida, Spain, Francisco San Martin spent the early years of his life surrounded by the rich culture and traditions of his birthplace. His family moved to Montana when he was a child, an adjustment that came with its own set of challenges. Yet, even in the wide-open landscapes of the American West, his love for performance began to take root. San Martin’s earliest memories of acting were reportedly sparked by school plays and local theater productions, where he discovered both a talent for embodying characters and a joy in storytelling that would shape his entire career.
Driven by ambition and a deep passion for the performing arts, San Martin pursued formal theater training before eventually relocating to Los Angeles, where the city’s bustling entertainment industry offered the opportunities he had long dreamed of. There, he quickly made his mark, securing a string of roles that highlighted his versatility as an actor. He first gained widespread recognition in the daytime television world with his portrayal of Dario Hernández on Days of Our Lives, a role that allowed him to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. Fans admired his ability to bring authenticity and nuance to every scene, and his performances often carried an emotional depth that made his characters feel real and relatable.
Following his success on Days of Our Lives, San Martin continued to expand his career with a memorable run as Dr. Marco on The Bold and the Beautiful. In this role, he displayed a talent for balancing drama with moments of lightness, bringing his characters to life in ways that resonated with viewers. In addition to his daytime television work, he appeared in critically acclaimed shows such as Jane the Virgin and took on roles in several independent films, where his dedication to storytelling and character work earned him respect from directors, co-stars, and audiences alike. Each role, no matter the size, was approached with the same level of commitment, thoughtfulness, and creative energy.
Beyond his professional achievements, those close to Francisco remember him for his kindness, generosity, and passion for life. Colleagues often spoke of his warmth on set, his willingness to mentor younger actors, and his infectious enthusiasm for the craft. Despite the pressures of the entertainment industry, he maintained close ties to his family and friends, always taking time to nurture the relationships that mattered most to him. He also remained connected to his roots, often reflecting on his Spanish heritage and the cultural experiences that shaped his early life and inspired his artistic sensibilities.
While his death has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew him personally and professionally, it also shines a light on the importance of mental health awareness, particularly within the demanding world of entertainment. Friends, fans, and mental health advocates alike have taken to social media to celebrate his life, share stories of the joy and inspiration he brought into their lives, and encourage conversations about support and care for those struggling in silence.
Francisco San Martin’s career, though tragically cut short, is a testament to the power of talent, dedication, and the human spirit. From his earliest days in Montana to his rise as a beloved figure in television, he demonstrated a rare ability to connect with audiences, to make them laugh, to make them cry, and, above all, to make them care. His performances will continue to resonate with viewers, and his legacy as an actor and human being will endure.
He is survived by family, close friends, and the countless fans who felt his presence through the characters he brought to life on screen. While his loss is deeply felt, the artistry, passion, and heart that Francisco San Martin shared with the world remain as a lasting tribute to a life lived with talent, dedication, and love for his craft.