Chabelo, Iconic Mexican Children’s Comic, Passes Away at 88

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador paid tribute to the beloved children's comedian Xavier López, who was better known by his stage name "Chabelo", on Saturday, following the news of his passing at the age of 88.

His long-running variety show, En Familia con Chabelo, ran continuously from 1967 to 2015 and enjoyed an impressive 48-year run. The President recalled how his eldest son, José Ramón, used to get up early to watch the comic on television when he was a child.

López was popular for his performances dressed in child-like clothing, which made him a key figure in the Mexican adult comic scene. He continued to use this style of dress well into his 80s, cementing his place as a much-loved character in Mexican television.

López, known for his long and successful career in show business, passed away on Saturday morning due to abdominal complications. His agent, Jessica Nevilley, said funeral arrangements would be announced later.

The American-born comic was born in Chicago to Mexican parents, but moved to Mexico with his family at a young age. Although he trained as a doctor, López eventually found his passion in acting and entertainment.

Throughout his career, he continued to perform in a child's raspy squeak, which led to jokes about his assumed immortality. This was confirmed on his fan page, which reported on his death, saying: He died suddenly on abdominal complications.