Ricky Davao’s Sudden Passing at Age 63 Leaves Philippine Showbiz in Mourning

Manila, Philippines — The Philippine entertainment industry was left in shock and deep sorrow following the sudden passing of veteran actor and director Ricky Davao at the age of 63. Known for his prolific contributions to film, television, and theater, Davao’s unexpected death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from fans, colleagues, and artists across generations.

A Quiet Farewell to a Towering Talent

Reports confirmed that Ricky Davao passed away in his sleep at his residence late Wednesday evening. Though his family has yet to release the official cause of death, early statements from close sources suggest that it may have been due to cardiac-related complications.

There had been no prior public disclosure about any serious illness, which made the news all the more devastating to those who knew and admired him.

His daughter, actress Gaby Davao, issued a short but heartfelt statement on social media:

“My dad was my hero. He gave his heart to his family and his craft. We are broken but grateful for the love pouring in. Please respect our privacy as we process this painful loss.”

Legacy of a Filipino Acting Icon

Ricky Davao’s career spanned more than four decades. He began as a theater actor before transitioning into television and film, earning accolades and praise for his range and depth. From compelling dramatic portrayals to endearing father figures and intense political roles, Davao carved a path few could match.

Some of his most notable works include “Babae sa Breakwater,” “Tanging Yaman,” “Sabel,” and more recently, the teleseryes “Legal Wives” and “My Husband’s Lover”, where his performances were widely regarded as groundbreaking.

He was not only admired for his artistry, but also for his professionalism, humility, and mentorship to younger stars.

Colleagues Mourn and Remember

As news broke, social media was immediately flooded with tributes:

Dingdong Dantes: “Sir Ricky was a gentle giant in the industry. He led with compassion and craft. Thank you for the wisdom you shared.”

Lea Salonga: “This one hurts. A true actor’s actor. Ricky, you were brilliant, and you were kind. Rest well.”

Vilma Santos: “Napakabigat. He was more than a co-star. He was family. Mahal ka namin, Ricky.”

A Final Curtain Call

Funeral arrangements are now being handled privately by his family. Sources indicate that a public memorial might be held to honor his legacy, depending on the family’s wishes.

While Ricky Davao may have taken his final bow on this earthly stage, his artistry, warmth, and contributions will echo through the halls of Philippine entertainment for generations to come.

Ricky Davao, Veteran Actor and Film Director, Dies at Age 63

Known for taking on countless roles as an actor and director, Davao leaves behind a legacy of powerful performances and a deep imprint on Philippine cinema and television

On May 1, veteran Filipino actor and television director Ricky Davao passed away at the age of 63.

Born on May 30, 1961, Davao came from a family of actors: His father was the celebrated actor Charlie Davao (Blind Rage, Batas ng .45, and Palengke Queen) and his younger brother, Bing, starred in a number of action movies. Davao, for his part, first entered the national spotlight as a member of the dancing group Vicor Dancers.

While he may have started in the world of entertainment as a dancer, Davao leaves behind one of the most diverse filmographies in Philippine cinema, contributing significantly as both an actor and director. He’s known for roles in acclaimed films such as Ipaglaban Mo, Saranggola, Smaller and Smaller Circles as well as progressive and genre-bending independent films like Fisting: Never Tear Us Apart.  Davao also brought the hit horror series !Oka Takat to life, terrorizing audiences with horror stories of Filipino folklore from 1997 to 2001. One of his more recent projects, the Netflix series Sosyal Climbers starring Maris Racal and Anthony Jennings, has received praise from both national and international audiences.

Davao also made national waves as an actor, winning the Gawad Urian as Best Supporting Actor in 1995 for his role in the legal drama Ipaglaban Mo. In 2001, the Film Academy of the Philippines awarded Davao with the title of Best Actor for his performance in Minsan May Isang Puso. He has also received awards for his roles in the romance drama Endo and the queer drama F#*@bois.

In 2010, Davao entered the world of politics, briefly running as councilor in Quezon City’s 4th District. However, he later withdrew his bid in order to avoid a conflicting schedule with a film release.

Davao was diagnosed with a terminal sickness in 2024, but he and his family chose to keep his health issues and details of the diagnosis private. He is survived by his three children Rikki Mae, Kenneth, and Arabella, whom he had with former wife Jackie Lou Blanco, an acclaimed actress herself.