Spanish actress Veronica Echegui has died in Madrid, aged 42.
The actress appeared in more than 30 films, including My Prisoner’s Yard in 2008 and The Cold Light Of Day alongside Sigourney Weaver and Bruce Willis.
The star was rushed to hospital on Sunday. She secretly battled cancer, with only a few people in the industry knowing she was sick, according to Hola! magazine.
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Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez paid tribute to the star.
“I was deeply shocked by the news of Veronica Echegui’s passing, an actress with enormous talent and humility who leaves us far too young. My sincere embrace in these such difficult moments for the entire family and friends,” Sanchez said.
Actor Antonio Banderas also shared his condolences.
“Today, Spanish cinema is in mourning due to the passing of Veronica Echegui,” Banderas said.
“My condolences to her family and friends.”
Echegui’s career spanned 18 years. She rose to fame in 2006 in the Spanish language film Yo Soy La Juani, for which she was nominated for a Goya Award for Best Actress.
The Goya Awards are Spain’s national film awards, often referred to as the Spanish Oscars.
She later won a Goya Award for Best Fiction Short film in 2022, for Tótem Loba.
She appeared alongside Noel Fielding and Richard Ayoade in The Mighty Boosh spin-off film, Bunny And The Bull.
From 2015 to 2017, she portrayed Elena Ledesma in Sky Atlantic’s Fortitude. She later played Maria Rodriguez in romantic comedy Book Of Love.
Her last role was Apple TV series Love You To Death.
Outside of her roles, she was known for fiercely campaigning against sexual abuse in the entertainment industry.
She previously claimed to be a victim multiple times at work.
Fans mourned the star via her Instagram account.
“We will always remember you, Veronica. How well you spent time in this short trip you have made in life,” one fan wrote.
“You will be eternal in your movies. All my support and love to your families and loved ones,” another added.
“Safe trip back home, shine bright,” another added.
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