Actress Nora Aunor, known as one of the Philippines’ most prominent stars, has died at 71.
Aunor’s death on Wednesday was announced by her daughter, fellow actress Lotlot de Leon, on Instagram the same day.
“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Nora Aunor, our beloved mother, celebrated television and movie actress, and a true National Artist of the Philippines,” de Leon captioned a black-and-white photo of the late star. “She touched generations with her unmatched talent, grace, and passion for the craft. Her voice, presence, and artistry shaped a legacy that will never fade.”
No cause of death has been given.
Aunor is thought to be the most awarded actress in Filipino cinema, with multiple lifetime achievement awards and several international awards, including an Asian Film Award for best actress.
The record-breaking singer and theater actress was known for the Filipino films “Bona” and “Taklub,” both shown at Cannes International Film Festival; “Himala,” the biopic “The Flor Contemplacion Story,” “Andrea, Paano Ba ang Maging Isang Ina?” and “Thy Womb,” which was shown at Venice International Film Festival.
She also starred in the television series “Bituin,” “Little Nanay,” “Onanay” and “Bilangin ang bituin sa langit.” Aunor’s final acting credit, for “Lilet Matias, Attorney-at-Law,” came in 2024.
The Philippines’ National Commission for Culture and the Arts announced on social media that Aunor would be given a public funeral and ceremony. The film and television star was granted the country’s Order of National Artist by the Office of the President in the field of Film and Broadcast Arts in 2022.
“The ‘Superstar’ has an extensive filmography of more than 170 films,” the commission wrote. “This number is exceeded only by the number of awards and citations she has received from local and international organizations.”
Aunor is survived by her five children, including actors Lotlot de Leon, Ian de León and Matet de Léon-Estrada.
“She was a star not only on screen, but in the hearts of many—and stars like hers never stop shining,” Lotlot de Leon continued. “Her light lives on—forever loved, never forgotten.”
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