Francisco San Martin, a Spanish‑born actor best known for his roles in Days of Our Lives, The Bold and the Beautiful, and Jane the Virgin, has died at the age of 39. His passing was confirmed after he was found dead at his Los Angeles home on January 16, 2025, and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled his death a suicide by hanging. The news stunned fans, colleagues, and the daytime drama community, many of whom expressed shock and sadness that a talented performer with so much career still ahead of him was gone so suddenly. Tributes poured in across social media from co‑stars and viewers who felt deeply connected to his work, underscoring the emotional impact of his loss.

San Martin was born on August 27, 1985, in Mallorca, Spain, and spent part of his childhood in Montana, where he first developed an interest in performing arts through children’s theater and early acting opportunities. As a teenager, he returned to Spain and worked as a model while continuing to pursue acting. He later moved permanently to Hollywood in his mid‑20s to further his career. His early life and international background gave him a broad range of experience and perspective that he carried into his roles throughout his professional journey.

San Martin’s breakout role came in 2011, when he originated the character Dario Hernandez on Days of Our Lives, one of daytime television’s most enduring soap operas. As Dario, he appeared in numerous episodes, portraying a layered character whose initial introduction as a petty thief evolved into a more complex storyline involving family and intrigue. The role earned him recognition among soap audiences and established him as a familiar face in daytime drama. In 2017, he returned to daytime television with a recurring role as Mateo — an estate manager — on The Bold and the Beautiful, further showcasing his versatility in portraying different character types in the soap genre.

Beyond soaps, San Martin also made his mark in primetime television and film. He appeared in the acclaimed 2013 biographical film Behind the Candelabra, starring Michael Douglas and Matt Damon, broadening his work beyond the daytime world and into mainstream cinema. In 2017, he was featured in the popular comedy‑drama series Jane the Virgin as Fabian Regalo del Cielo, a charming estate manager and romantic interest of the title character.  His performance on Jane the Virgin was well received by fans of the show, and numerous viewers shared memories of his character’s arc online after news of his passing. These varied roles illustrated his ability to work across genres and appeal to different audiences, from daytime viewers to fans of serialized comedy‑drama.

The reaction to San Martin’s death highlighted not only his on‑screen accomplishments but also the personal impact he had on colleagues and admirers. Early tributes included heartfelt messages from Days of Our Lives co‑stars, including Camila Banus, who played his on‑screen sister Gabi Hernandez and posted publicly about their friendship and her grief. Social media became a space for collective mourning and remembrance, with fans sharing favorite scenes, behind‑the‑scenes memories, and personal reflections on the ways his performances resonated. Many wrote about his charisma, warmth, and the joy he brought to viewers’ screens. Even individuals who knew him casually or had only met him once remarked on his friendliness and presence, describing his loss as deeply felt.

San Martin’s story serves as a reminder of the often unseen struggles that can accompany public success. Although the details of his personal life and mental health remain private out of respect for his family, the circumstances of his death have prompted broader conversations about emotional well‑being, especially in high‑pressure industries like entertainment where stress, visibility, and personal expectations intersect. The early age at which he died — and the abrupt end to a career that spanned daytime, primetime, and film — underscore the fragility of life and the importance of compassion, support, and attention to mental health. In the days following the announcement, many fans and professionals alike shared not just condolences, but also messages encouraging others to reach out for help if they are struggling, reflecting a broader cultural emphasis on understanding and addressing mental health challenges.

Francisco San Martin’s legacy rests in the performances that brought him recognition and the connections he forged through his work. From his memorable portrayal of Dario Hernandez on Days of Our Lives to roles in The Bold and the Beautiful, Jane the Virgin, and the film Behind the Candelabra, his contributions spanned both television and cinema.  For many, he will be remembered not only as a gifted actor but also as a person whose presence — both on screen and in the hearts of fans — made a lasting impact. As viewers revisit his work and celebrate his contributions, the outpouring of grief and admiration speaks to the deep affection audiences held for him. His passing at such a young age leaves a void in the entertainment community and among the viewers who grew to appreciate his craft, reminding us of the human stories behind the roles that entertain us.