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'In the Heights' actor Doreen Montalvo dies at 56, Internet says 'rest in power'

Montalvo’s unexpected death might have a direct relation to a stroke she suffered two weeks ago, according to her manager

Television and Broadway actress, Doreen Montalvo, died on Saturday, October 17, after a sudden ailment as confirmed by her manager Steve Maihack on social media. She was 56. The legendary Broadway actress was an ensemble member, a bolero singer and an understudy for several characters. Montalvo’s unexpected death might have a direct relation to a stroke she suffered two weeks ago, according to Maihack. Montalvo is survived by her husband, fellow stage actor Michael Mann and her step-children.

“We are devastated to hear she has left us today. Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to her husband Mike Mann and their family during this time,” Maihack wrote in an Instagram post. “Love and light to all her friends, colleagues and fans…my heart aches for us all.” He also shared his favorite memory with Doreen saying, “My favorite memory will be watching you as Gloria Fajardo in the OYF tour at the open-air outside KC Starlight theater....belting out ‘Mi Tierra’ to an audience of 8000, with the sun literally setting as if God himself was directing the most PERFECT moment for us all. It was thrilling.”  

The ‘In the Heights’ actor’s other Broadway hits include ‘On Your Feet,’ ‘American Mariachi’ and her latest broadway contribution of ‘Mrs Doubtfire’ that released three days prior to coronavirus-forced shutdowns. Montalvo has also appeared on a number of TV series including 'Law & Order,' 'The Good Wife,' 'Smash,' 'One Life to Live' and 'Elementary' and 'Madam Secretary.' Her film credits, all from 2013, include 'The Tale of Timmy Two Chins,' 'Jack, Jules, Esther & Me' and 'Tracked'.

People shared their heartfelt tributes to her outstanding career on social media. Actor Javier Munoz tweeted saying, “I just don’t have all my words yet, it’s too much. But I love you Doreen. Always.” Another tweet said, “We are so saddened by this sudden loss. Sending love and prayers to all who knew and loved her.”

Another fan tweeted saying, “The Mrs. Doubtfire Broadway family has lost a loved one in their cast. Rest in Power, Doreen Montalvo Mann.” 

The official Twitter handle of ‘The Mrs. Doubtfire the Musical’ wrote a two-part tweet saying. “The Mrs. Doubtfire the Musical family mourns the loss of Doreen Montalvo. Doreen’s immense talent was matched by her extraordinary kindness and remarkable generosity.  Her light shone brightly onstage and off.” The second part of the tweet said, “She was beloved by the entire company and by every person who was lucky enough to call her a colleague or friend.  Our hearts are with her husband Mike and all of her family and friends.”

Another colleague took to Instagram to express her pain saying, “I can't believe I'm posting this right now! I'm so numb and my heart is broken into Million pieces. Heaven has gained another Beautiful Angel, My Dear friend Doreen.” 

Montalvo recently remastered her role of a bolero singer in Jon M Chu’s adaptation of “In the Heights” and as an ensemble member in Steven Spielberg’s “West Side Story” musical movie adaptation. Both films, capturing the actor’s final performance, are set to premiere in 2021.