Filipino icon Nora Aunor, national artist and 'superstar,' passes away at 71
Dubai: Iconic actress and National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts Nora Aunor has died at age 71, her son Kristoffer Ian De Leon confirmed in a heartfelt Facebook post on April 16, 2025. ' We love you, Ma… Alam ng Diyos kung gaano ka namin kamahal… Pahinga ka na po Ma… Nandito ka lang sa puso at isipan namin, ' he wrote. (We love you, Mom. God knows how much we love you. Please rest now. You will remain in our hearts and minds.)
In his tribute, Ian described his mother as the beating heart of their family, a beacon of unwavering love, strength, and warmth. "Her kindness, wisdom, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew her," he shared. "She will be missed beyond words and remembered forever."
Lotlot De Leon, Nora's daughter, also took to Facebook to express her grief. "It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Nora Aunor, beloved mother, celebrated television and movie actress, and true National Artist of the Philippines," she wrote. "She was a star not only on screen but in the hearts of many—and stars like hers never stop shining. Her light lives on—forever loved, never forgotten."
Just days earlier, Lotlot's mother-in-law, the beloved singer and actress Pilita Corrales, also passed away. Lotlot shared an emotional post on Facebook, writing, "She loved her family like there's no tomorrow. She would move heaven and earth just for them... Rest in paradise, Mamita. A million thanks to you."
Aunor, born Nora Cabaltera Villamayor, reportedly passed away just weeks shy of her 72nd birthday. Her family has not disclosed the exact cause of death, though she had been dealing with ongoing health issues and recently withdrew from the 2025 elections due to medical advice.
Known as the 'Superstar' and hailed as the ' Grand Dame of Philippine Cinema,' Aunor's career spanned over five decades in film, television, music, and stage. She first rose to fame as a singing champion on Tawag ng Tanghalan in 1967 and later captivated audiences with award-winning performances in classics like Himala (1982), Minsa'y Isang Gamu-Gamo (1976), and Bona (1980).
In 2022, Aunor was conferred the Order of National Artists, the highest cultural honor in the Philippines. She also received multiple accolades, including five FAMAS Best Actress awards and international recognition for roles in Thy Womb (2012) and The Flor Contemplacion Story (1995).
Her final film appearance was in Mananambal (2024), and she was last seen on television in Lilet Matias: Attorney-at-Law.
Beyond the spotlight, Aunor lived a vibrant and sometimes turbulent personal life. She is survived by her children Ian, Lotlot, and Matet de Leon, among other adopted children and grandchildren.
Condolences and tributes poured in from fans, colleagues, and fellow artists, including longtime friend and on-screen rival Vilma Santos, who wrote: 'Our sincerest condolences and prayers. Rest in peace, Mare (my friend). Ms Nora Aunor, our superstar and national artist, maraming salamat.'
Aunor's legacy is one of unparalleled brilliance, her impact forever etched in the annals of Philippine cinema and culture. Her light may have dimmed, but her spirit, like the stars she embodied, will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who loved her.
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