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Mauro Menéndez death, repatriation delays, and ongoing media

Updated 1 time since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-07-28 19:54 UTC → 2026-08-01 23:35 UTC · added removed

DJ Maahez, real name Mauro Menéndez, died in Barbados in mid‑July 2026 after severe pneumonia triggered a fatal heart condition. Actress Aylín Mujica confirmed the loss on 16 July while filming Top Chef VIP in Bogotá and gave a televised interview on 22 July, noting that Barbadian legal and bureaucratic hurdles have blocked the family’s attempts to repatriate his remains to Miami. A crowdfunding drive raised over US$26,000 for funeral costs, but Osamu Menéndez, the father, publicly declined the aid, stating he could cover expenses himself; the campaign was halted at the family’s request. Mujica described the difficulty locating her son’s body; staff eventually guided her to a closed funeral home where she could have a final embrace. A week after the tragedy, she resumed filming Top Chef VIP, citing colleagues’ support and professional commitments as crucial to continuing work. On 27 July, Telemundo aired Mauro’s last voice message, in which he said he felt better after treatment and was no longer in pain. The audio was released to address public criticism of Mujica’s handling of his final days. Mexican singer Lupillo Rivera, present on set, witnessed Mujica’s devastated reaction and offered support. The episode has generated widespread media attention across Latin America, highlighting personal grief, In early August, Mujica announced she would return to filming the logistical challenges fifth season of overseas repatriation, Top Chef VIP, set to premiere on 11 August—the date that would have been her son’s birthday. Mauro’s remains were cremated in Barbados and the public scrutiny faced by high‑profile families. are slated for transfer to Miami for a family tribute. Mujica posted an Instagram video urging herself and her children to stay strong, thanking supporters and noting that work helps her cope with grief. The new season will air at 7 PM CT on Telemundo.

Versions

  1. 2026-08-01 23:35 UTC Mauro Menéndez death, repatriation delays, and ongoing media
  2. 2026-07-28 19:54 UTC Mauro Menéndez death, repatriation delays, and ongoing media

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