Hollywood Star Gem Elizabeth Pena Died at 55

Hollywood Star Gem Elizabeth Pena Died at 55 

Iconic actress Elizabeth Pena died on Tuesday at the age of 55 due to a natural cause in Los Angeles.

Her manager, Gina Rugolo, confirmed on Wednesday that the versatile actress and Hollywood star died after suffering with a brief illness. She did not elaborate further on the specific details of Pena's illness.

Although she had various roles in different Hollywood films, it was in her latest acting stint in the hit TV comedy series Modern Family that the actress was greatly remembered. She played the role of a mother of Sofia Vergara's character in this widely watched TV show.

Her death struck sadness in the showbiz industry. Her Modern Family co-star Steve Levitan paid tribute to Pena by posting a dedication in his twitter account. "We were so sad to learn of the passing of Elizabeth Pena. A member of our Family, she will be missed. #RIPElizabethPena," posted by Levitan in his Twitter.

Zoe Saldana and Eva Longoria also expressed their respect to the late actress. Pena, with a Cuban-American descent, was born in New Jersey. She grew-up in New York where she got exposed to the world of films and TV.

Pena's contribution to the industry ran for four decades with top-quality films and highly-watched TV shows. Among her films are Rush Hour, Lone Star, Jacob's Ladder, La Bamba, and Down and Out in Beverly Hills.

Her TV shows included The Modern Family, Dream On, Resurrection Blvd, and LA Law.  She also played the voices of some cartoon characters from the films The Incredibles, Justice League, and American Dad.

Pena was also a part of Matador, an El Rey Network TV drama.

"She was a role model, a truly extraordinary performer and an inspiration in every sense of the word. Our thoughts are with Elizabeth's family and friends during this difficult time. She will be deeply missed," said the El Rey Network management.

Her husband, two children, mother and sister are preparing for her burial. Her fans from across the globe have also expressed their condolences to the family of Pena. Her fellow actors have shown their respect to Pena through online social network sites such as Twitter and Instagram.

 

 

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