Adan Canto: X-Men and Designated Survivor star dies of cancer at 42

Last Updated: January 10, 2024By Chief Editor

Actor Adan Canto, who was known for US TV shows like Designated Survivor and films including X-Men: Days of Future Past, has died at the age of 42.

The Mexican star had suffered from appendiceal cancer, his publicist said.

Canto was the national security adviser in Designated Survivor alongside Kiefer Sutherland, who paid tribute to the actor as “such a wonderful spirit”.

In the 2014 X-Men film, Canto played mutant Sunspot, and co-star Halle Berry later cast him in her movie Bruised.

‘Dear sweet friend’

The actress and director wrote on Instagram: “I don’t have the words just yet… but my dear sweet friend Adan just gained his wings. Forever, forever in my heart.”

Canto’s wife Stephanie Ann posted a photo of the couple, a Bible passage and the words: “Forever my treasure Adan, see you soon.”

In a statement, his publicist Jennifer Allen said: “Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew. Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. He will be greatly missed by so many.”

In his message, Sutherland added: “As an actor his desire to do well, to be great, and then do better, was truly impressive and he will be greatly missed. I am also heartbroken for his wife, Steph and his two young children. Adan, may you rest in peace.”

Canto played Aaron Shore in Designated Survivor, which aired on the ABC network in 2016 and 17 before being picked up by Netflix for a third and final season.

Co-star Maggie Q wrote: “Beautiful friend… You are the level of person that Hollywood didn’t even deserve. Kindness and warmth and generosity of spirit – total dedication to your family, and ALWAYS doing the right thing. No one had your moral compass nor did they even come close.

“I don’t understand this. Anyone who knew you was a lucky one. That’s all I do know.”