It’s with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Adrián Olivares, a beloved former member of the iconic boy band Menudo. Adrián left us at the age of 48, leaving behind a legacy of music and cherished memories.
Adrián’s sudden departure on a somber Monday night was confirmed by his family and bandmates. He had recently been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, a condition exacerbated by his battle with ulcerative colitis. In response, his loved ones established a GoFundMe page to support the family’s expenses and honor his memory. Every contribution, they said, would be immensely appreciated to help give Adrián a proper farewell and assist his family during this tough time.
“All the proceeds will go to his mom, Natasha. Adrián, we love you and miss you dearly,” they wrote.
Adrián’s journey with Menudo began in 1990 when he joined as the group’s 23rd member, two decades after their formation. Although he left the band in 1993 at the tender age of 16, his tenure was marked by significant contributions, with albums like 15 Años, Detras Tu Mirada, and Dancin’, Movin’, Shakin’ emerging during this period.
In addition to his musical achievements, Adrián was a multifaceted talent. He recently established Wynwood Podcasting, a multimedia studio in Miami, Florida. Before that, he ran Antenna Sound Inc. He also appeared in the Max miniseries Forever Young.
Adrián leaves behind three daughters: Eliana, 18, and twin girls Lia and Lilly, 8. The news of his passing deeply affected his former bandmates, who shared their sorrow and fond memories on social media. Robert Avellanet, another Menudo member, expressed his shock and mourning on Instagram alongside a picture of young Adrián. “I still can’t wrap my head around it,” Robert wrote. “Please give his family the strength they need. I hope your transition is peaceful, my brother. You were always the funniest, and we will meet again. Rest in peace, Adrián.”
Sergio Blass, another former bandmate, echoed similar sentiments. “Fly high, little brother, and give your family strength. You always seemed beyond your years, and your charm was second to none. You’ll forever be one of the good ones, living on in our hearts,” he declared.
Adrián’s eldest daughter, Eliana, penned a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, sharing her grief and love for her father. “Words fail to describe my feelings. I’ll always love you, dad. You’ve taught me so much, from love and strength to guidance, things I’d never have known without you. I still can’t believe you’re gone. I miss you dearly and wish I could hold you or tell you again how much we love you. Thank you for being the most incredible dad anyone could ask for. I find solace knowing God has you under his care, watching over me as my guardian angel. I will always love you, dad.”
Adrián’s ex-girlfriend, Sylvia Campos, also offered a touching memorial on Facebook. “I’ll always love you, Adriancito. You were an amazing man, singer, son, brother, friend, and most importantly, a GREAT DAD. May your journey ahead be bright. Forever in my heart,” she wrote.
Adrián Olivares wasn’t the first Menudo member to depart too soon. Ray Reyes, also a former bandmate, passed away from a heart attack in 2021 at 51. Anthony Galindo, another member, tragically took his own life that same year, struggling with depression brought on by the pandemic’s impact on the music industry. Both families requested privacy and shared heartfelt messages in memory of their loved ones.
As we bid farewell to Adrián Olivares, we remember the joy and light he brought into our lives through his music and his enduring spirit. Rest in peace, Adrián. You will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
