Actor Adan Canto, known for ‘The Cleaning Lady’ and ‘Designated Survivor,’ dead at 42 from appendiceal cancer

Adan Canto, an actor known for his roles in “The Cleaning Lady” and “Designated Survivor,” died Monday following a private battle with appendiceal cancer. He was 42.

“Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever,” his publicist Jennifer Allen said in a statement Tuesday. “He will be greatly missed by so many.”

Canto played Arman Morales in the first two seasons of “The Cleaning Lady.” The show is currently shooting a third season, but he had not been written into any episodes due to his health.

He also played White House chief of staff-turned-Vice President Aaron Shore in “Designated Survivor” starring Kiefer Sutherland, and real-life politician Rodrigo Lara Bonia in Season 1 of “Narcos.”

In addition, he appeared in the films “X-Men: Days of Future Past” as Sunspot, “Bruised” with Halle Berry, and “Agent Game” with Dermot Mulroney and Mel Gibson. He also directed the short films “Before Tomorrow” and “The Shot.”

Born in Mexico but raised in Texas, he starred in a number of Mexican TV shows and movies before making his stateside debut in Season 1 of “The Following” starring Kevin Bacon.

Canto is survived by his wife and creative partner Stephanie Ann Canto and their two children, Roman Alder and Eve Josephine.

“We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Adan Canto,” Warner Bros. Television and FOX Entertainment said in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. “A wonderful actor and dear friend, we were honored to have him as part of the Warner Bros. Television and FOX Entertainment families. … Most recently, he lit up the screen in ‘The Cleaning Lady’ with a powerful performance that showcased his artistry, range, depth and vulnerability. This is an unfathomable loss, and we grieve alongside his wife Stephanie, their children and loved ones. We will miss Adan dearly.”

———