Adan Canto Dies: "The Cleaning Lady" & "Designated Survivor" Star was 42
by Nellie Andreeva
January 9, 2024


Adan Canto, the Mexican-American actor who parlayed his music career in Mexico into becoming a Hollywood leading man, died Jan. 8 after a private battle with appendiceal cancer. He was 42.

Canto most recently starred in Fox’s drama series "The Cleaning Lady", playing the male lead for the first two seasons. While his health did not allow him to film when production on the upcoming Season 3 started in December, following the end of the strikes, Canto was planning to rejoin the cast later in the season.

The series will pay tribute to its star with a card in the Season 3 premiere.




He started acting in local commercials and TV shows before being scouted for a major role in Kevin Williamson’s 2013 Fox drama series "The Following".

Showcasing his versatility as an actor, he went on to star in "Designated Survivor" where he portrayed Vice President-elect Aaron Shore opposite Kiefer Sutherland for three seasons.



“Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever,” Canto’s reps at UTA, Entertainment360 and Viewpoint said. “He will be greatly missed by so many.”

Canto leaves behind his wife, best friend and creative partner Stephanie Ann Canto, and their two young children, Roman Alder, 3½ years of age, and Eve Josephine, 1½.

https://deadline.com/2024/01/adan-canto-dead-the-cleaning-lady-designated-survivor-1235700399/

"Designated Survivor" Co-Stars Mourn Adan Canto
by Armando Tinoco
January 9, 2024


Kiefer Sutherland shared a post on Instagram to honor Canto and shared that he was “heartbroken” by his loss and for his family.

“It seems lately I have had to make too many posts like this one, but I am heartbroken by the loss of Adan Canto,” Sutherland shared. “He was such a wonderful spirit. As an actor his desire to do well, to be great, and then do better, was truly impressive and he will be greatly missed. I am also heartbroken for his wife, Steph and his two young children. Adan, may you rest in peace.”




Maggie Q shared a post on Instagram to honor her “beautiful friend” adding, “You are the level of person that Hollywood didn’t even deserve. Kindness and warmth and generosity of spirit- total dedication to your family, and ALWAYS doing the right thing.”

“No one had your moral compass nor did they even come close,” she continued. “I don’t understand this. Anyone who knew you was a lucky one. That’s all I do know.”




LaMonica Garrett said, “As great of an actor as Adan was, he was an even better human being, father, husband, and friend. Exuded both confidence and humility effortlessly.

As stand up as they come. Sad day. You, your wife and children will be in my prayers brother… RIP friend….”




Italia Ricci wrote on Instagram, “I’m completely lost for words. He was the strongest person I know in every sense of the word and I am so angry that this happened. No one deserved this less than this sweet, brilliant, kind, and gentle man. **** cancer. ****. I’m so sorry for everyone hurting at this devastating loss and am beyond heartbroken for his family. You’ll be in my heart always.”

https://deadline.com/2024/01/adan-canto-dead-reactions-designated-survivor-the-cleaning-lady-1235701880/

Very sad :(

"Designated Survivor" Cast Gathers to Say Goodbye to Adan Canto
by Kimberly Roots
Jan. 27, 2024


Adan Canto‘s "Designated Survivor" castmates gathered recently to remember the actor, who died on Jan. 8 at age 42.

“We all came to say goodbye,” Maggie Q posted to Instagram Saturday alongside a photo of her with Kiefer Sutherland, LaMonica Garrett, Italia Ricci and Kal Penn. “Love you forever friend, till we meet again.”

Series creator David Guggenheim, as well as costume designer Nancy Gould, also are in the shot.



The group stood under a theater marquee that read, “In loving memory of Joseph Adan Canto 1981-2024.”

Per Canto’s obituary, a funeral service was held Friday at Surf Ballroom & Museum in Clear Lake, Iowa.

https://tvline.com/news/adan-canto-dead-designated-survivor-cast-memorial-1235139769/