Venezuelan actress Andreina Yépez dies at 51 after cancer battle

Venezuelan actress, comedian, and model Andreina Yépez died on August 25, 2026, in Miami, Florida, at the age of 51, after a brief, private battle with cancer Source: hoydo. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer about a month before her death, according to multiple reports Source: mileniomx, listindiario. Her family confirmed the news, and tributes poured in from colleagues and fans on social media Source: elnacionalve.

Career highlights

Yépez was best known for her role as "Melao" Urbina in the telenovela Cosita Rica (2003), written by Leonardo Padrón Source: hoydo. She also appeared in numerous other telenovelas, including Por Amarte Tanto, Pecado de Amor, Sol de Tentación, Toda Mujer, Trapos Íntimos, Amantes de Luna Llena, La Mujer Perfecta, and Dulce Amargo Source: mileniomx, listindiario. Her comedy work included iconic shows like Bienvenidos, Cheverísimo, and El Show de Joselo Source: elnacionalve. She began her career as a dancer for Miguel Moly's song "La Piernona" Source: listindiario.

Private battle

Sources agree that Yépez kept her illness private, sharing it only with close family, including her daughter Adrekza Yépez Source: hoydo. The speed of the disease's progression surprised those close to her Source: elnacionalve. While most outlets report pancreatic cancer, some specify it had metastasized Source: mileniomx. The news was first announced by Venezuelan media and the program Zona I, where she worked Source: listindiario, diariolibree.

Reaction

Colleagues, journalists, and fans expressed condolences on social media, remembering her as a symbol of joy and professionalism Source: hoydo. Her death leaves a void in Venezuelan television and comedy Source: diariolibree.