Renée Victor, Actress in ‘Weeds’ and Voice of Abuelita in ‘Coco,’ Dies at 86

Renowned actress Renée Victor, widely recognized for her role as Lupita in the television series Weeds and as the voice of Abuelita Elena in Disney-Pixar’s critically acclaimed film Coco, has passed away at the age of 86. Victor died on May 30, 2025, at her home in Sherman Oaks, California, following a battle with lymphoma. She was surrounded by family at the time of her passing.

Born on June 15, 1938, in San Antonio, Texas, Renée Victor began her career in the performing arts with a strong foundation in music. During the 1960s and 1970s, she toured extensively alongside her husband as part of the musical duo “Ray & Renee.” Their performances, blending Latin rhythms and soulful harmonies, earned them the nickname “the Latin Sonny and Cher.” This early experience laid the groundwork for Victor’s later transition into acting.

Victor’s acting career spanned over four decades, with notable appearances across television and film. She gained significant recognition for her role as Lupita, a recurring character on the Showtime series Weeds. Her portrayal of Lupita, the sharp-witted and caring housekeeper, was praised for its authenticity and comedic timing, earning her a loyal fan base.

In addition to Weeds, Victor appeared in numerous television shows, including guest roles in ER, The Shield, and The George Lopez Show. Her film credits include The Doctor (1991), The Apostle (1997), and A Night in Old Mexico (2013). Victor’s versatility allowed her to perform across genres, from drama to comedy to animation.

Victor’s most internationally recognized role came in 2017 when she voiced Abuelita Elena in Pixar’s Coco. The film, which celebrates Mexican culture and traditions surrounding Día de los Muertos, received widespread critical acclaim, including the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

As Abuelita, Victor brought to life a character who is both stern and loving—a grandmother dedicated to preserving family values. Her voice performance added depth and warmth, contributing to the film’s emotional resonance with audiences of all ages, especially within the Latinx community.

Throughout her career, Victor was an advocate for Latino representation in Hollywood. She used her platform to highlight the importance of diverse storytelling and often mentored emerging Latinx actors. Her roles frequently reflected her commitment to portraying authentic and multidimensional Latina characters, helping to challenge stereotypes in the entertainment industry.

Renée Victor’s passing marks the loss of a significant figure in both Latino and American entertainment. Her extensive body of work continues to inspire actors and audiences alike. From her musical beginnings to her impactful television and film performances, Victor’s career exemplified dedication, cultural pride, and artistic excellence.

Her portrayal of Abuelita in Coco remains a touchstone in animated cinema for its heartfelt representation of family and cultural heritage, while her work on Weeds showcased her range and skill in live-action drama.

Renée Victor’s death at 86 ends a remarkable career defined by memorable roles and meaningful contributions to Latino representation in media. Her work as an actress and voice artist left an indelible mark on both film and television. Fans and colleagues continue to celebrate her talent, warmth, and the legacy she leaves behind.

For those inspired by Renée Victor’s performances, revisiting her roles in Weeds and Coco offers a lasting tribute to her artistry and cultural impact.