Peruvian comedian Carlos Vílchez paid an emotional tribute to his longtime colleague Enrique Espejo, known as 'Yuca', who died on September 11, 2026, at the age of 75, following a prolonged decline in health that began with an accident.
Vílchez, who shared countless sketches and tours with Espejo over the years, posted a photograph on his social media showing the two men with their heads leaning together, Espejo looking at the camera while Vílchez smiled with his eyes closed. He accompanied the image with a message describing the depth of their bond.
A tribute recalling 33 years of friendship
Vílchez wrote that 33 years of friendship could not simply be forgotten. He recalled how, whenever they went out to film outdoor scenes together, Espejo would tell him, "Vilchezitos, pásame mi letra," asking him to feed him his lines. Vílchez said he would reply that he had not yet read his own script, to which Espejo would answer that this was his problem, a routine he said reflected the humor and trust that defined their working relationship.
Vílchez, known for his role as 'La Carlota,' also recalled the difficult moments and joys the pair went through together. He said he would never forget the years and everything good and bad they shared, and that Espejo, whom he affectionately called 'chiquillo,' as Espejo used to call others, would always remain in his heart. He closed his message by wishing his friend rest in peace, addressing him as 'mi YUQUTA.'
A career built on Peruvian popular comedy
Espejo had suffered a serious accident in 2025 that left him in intensive care. Although he eventually came out of the ICU, his health never fully recovered afterward.
Espejo built his career in Peruvian television, becoming especially well known for his work on the long-running sketch show 'Risas y Salsa' and on programs produced by fellow comedian Jorge Benavides. That body of work established him as a reference point for popular comedy in Peru, and his death has left a deep void among performers who shared the stage with him, Vílchez among them.
