RIP Gabriela Medina

 

Distinguished actress Gabriela Medina, grandmother of Minister Carolina Arredondo, dies at 89

biobiochile

By Valentina Espinoza Poblete

June 16, 2025

 

On the afternoon of Monday, June 16, the death at the age of 89 of the distinguished television and theater actress Gabriela Medina, mother of actor Claudio Arredondo and grandmother of the Minister of Culture, Arts, and Heritage, Carolina Arredondo Marzán, was confirmed.

The information was confirmed by the official website of Chile Actores, who expressed their solidarity with the family at this sensitive time.

“We regret to announce the sensitive death of Gabriela Medina, a fundamental figure in Chilean art. With more than sixty years of experience and a steadfast commitment to the dignity of the acting profession, Gabriela left an indelible mark,” the statement begins.

Career of Chilean actress Gabriela Medina

Her distinguished career includes performances at the Camilo Henríquez Theater and the Chilean National Theater, where she participated in "unforgettable plays in a dark time," the site highlights.

On television, the actress appeared in more than thirty soap operas, including "Los títeres," "Los Venegas," "Los 80," "Ángel Malo," and "Brujas."

Regarding her film career, Gabriela Medina stood out with her roles in films such as "Coronación," "La fiebre del loco," and "Machuca."

In 1976, she was recognized as Best Actress for her role in "La familia de Marta Mardones." That was the beginning of a string of awards for her distinguished career.

In 2011, she received the APES Award, in 2013 the Chilean Cinema Award, and in 2016 she was honored with the "Lifetime Achievement Medal" for the 75th anniversary of the Experimental Theater of the University of Chile.

In 2024, she won the Caleuche Award for her acting career, which was accepted by her son, Claudio, after he had stated that the actress was in poor health.

“Her extensive filmography and theatrical repertoire are a testament to an exemplary career, marked by her professionalism, versatility, and unwavering commitment. Her contributions enriched Chile's theatrical and audiovisual heritage, inspiring new generations and championing the profession. Gabriela Medina's legacy is an indelible part of the history of Chilean theater,” concludes the statement from Chile Actores.

For her part, Minister Carolina Arredondo has not officially commented on her grandmother's death; however, she shared an intimate photograph of her on social media.

MEDINA, Gabtiela (Gabriela Amor Medina Espinoza)

Born: 10/7/1935, Santiago, Chile

Died: 6/16/2025, Santiago, Chile

 

Gabriela Medina’s western – actress:

Sal – 2011 (Laura)