James Bond star dead: Emilio Echevarria from Die Another Day dies, aged 80

James Bond star Emilio Echevarria has died aged 80

James Bond actor Emilio Echevarría has died aged 80, with fans and fellow stars paying tribute to the star.

The Mexican star, best known for his role in Die Another Day, passed away in Mexico City on Saturday. The heartbreaking news was announced by The Mexican Academy of Cinematographic Arts and Sciences on Monday. The AMACC released a statement saying: "The AMACC regrets the sensitive death of actor Emilio Echevarría, who forged an enormous career in film and theatre.

"He received three Ariel nominations for his participation as a side actor." The cause of death has yet to be confirmed. Emilio was born in Mexico City on 3 July 1944. He began his acting career in 1978 as a member of the Constitution of Art and Society. The actor appeared in the likes of Amores Perros and Y tu mamá también, which also co-starred Gael García Bernal.

He also played Mexican president Antonio López de Santa Anna in the 2004 production of The Alamo. In 2002, Emilio appeared in Die Another Day as Raoul alongside James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan, John Cleese, Halle Berry, Toby Stephens, Rosamund Pike and Dame Judi Dench.

Emilio's character, Raoul, was a Cuban intelligence operative who helped the 007 agent during missions. He provided the agent with important equipment and intel as he travels through Havan to track down the antagonist, Zao.

Tributes trickled in for the actor, with screenwriter Guillermo Arriaga paying homage to Emilio, saying: "Sad news for those of us who loved and admired him. Emilio Echevarría has died. A tremendous actor and an even better human being. A dear friend. I had the privilege of collaborating with him on several productions. A great man."

Emilio's career was decorated with accolades; he garnered three Ariel Award nods over the years. His first came through in 1990 for Best Actor in a Minor Role for 'Morir en el Golfo,' followed by a 2016 nomination for Best Supporting Actor for 'A Monster With A Thousand Heads. ' Then, in 2018, he earned another nod for Best Supporting Actor in 'The Chosen Ones.

Emilio is survived by his daughter Lourdes.

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