X-Men actor Adan Canto is dead

Mexican actor Adan Canto, recognized for his performances in “Designated Survivor” and the superhero film “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” has passed away after a struggle with cancer.

At the age of 42, Adan Canto passed away on Monday, losing his battle with appendiceal cancer, as confirmed by the actor’s publicist, Jennifer Allen.

“Adan had a depth of spirit that few truly knew,” Allen said as quoted by USA Today. “Those who glimpsed it were changed forever. … He will be greatly missed by so many.”

Born in Mexico and raised in Texas, Adan Canto portrayed the pyrokinetic mutant Sunspot in the 2014 film “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” sharing the screen with Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen, and Hugh Jackman. The sci-fi-action movie earned an Oscar nomination for Best Achievement in Visual Effects in 2015.

Canto initiated his career at the age of 16, leaving his hometown in Ciudad Acuña, Coahuila, Mexico, for Mexico City, where he worked as a singer-songwriter.

He later ventured into acting, making his TV debut on the Mexican series “Estado de Gracia” in 2009. His American debut came in Kevin Williamson’s drama series “The Following,” alongside Kevin Bacon.

Additionally, Adan Canto played roles in the Halle Berry-directed sports drama “Bruised” in 2020 and the 2022 action thriller “Agent Game.”