It’s a sad day for fans of British comedy and global theater alike. Mario Ernesto Sánchez, the Cuban-American actor best known to UK audiences for his unforgettable role in the classic Only Fools and Horses Christmas special “Miami Twice,” has passed away at the age of 78. His assistant confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement, announcing his death after a long illness.
While Sánchez’s time on Only Fools and Horses was brief, his performance as a Colombian drug lord opposite Sir David Jason’s iconic Del Boy left a lasting impression. More than just a guest star, Sánchez brought charisma, tension, and humor to the screen, making the Miami-set episodes some of the show’s most memorable moments.
Beyond the sitcom, Sánchez was a pioneering force in Hispanic theater, founding Miami’s Teatro Avante and the Miami International Hispanic Theater Festival. His contributions spanned decades and borders, touching lives on stage and off.
As tributes pour in from fellow actors, fans, and cultural institutions, it’s clear that Mario Ernesto Sánchez wasn’t just a talented performer—he was a man of passion, purpose, and profound cultural impact.
Who Was Mario Ernesto Sánchez?
Early Life and Background
Mario Ernesto Sánchez was born in Cuba and later made the United States his home, building a career that seamlessly blended his Latin American roots with the Western performing arts scene. A man of many talents, Sánchez wasn’t just an actor—he was also a director, playwright, and cultural leader.
Raised in a family that valued the arts, Sánchez was immersed in storytelling from an early age. His passion for performance only deepened after immigrating to the U.S., where he studied acting and quickly carved out a space for himself in both English-language and Spanish-language media.
Sánchez’s heritage played a significant role in shaping his artistic identity. He was passionate about showcasing Cuban and broader Latin American experiences through theater and television. Whether portraying characters rooted in Cuban culture or bringing intensity to English-speaking roles, he always infused his work with authenticity and emotion.
Acting Career Beginnings
Sánchez’s acting journey began in earnest in the early 1970s, where he took on roles in regional theater productions before landing parts in American television dramas. He became a familiar face to audiences on shows like Miami Vice, where his gritty performances added gravitas to the crime-centric narratives that defined the series.
But it wasn’t just TV where Sánchez thrived. He made waves in theater, too—directing, producing, and acting in dozens of productions that tackled issues of identity, exile, and community. With a flair for both drama and subtle comedy, he became one of the most respected figures in Miami’s theatrical landscape.
His bilingual ability gave him a rare advantage, allowing him to move fluidly between American and Latin American productions. This dual presence enriched his craft and gave voice to underrepresented communities in mainstream media—a legacy that would define much of his later work.
His Role in “Only Fools and Horses”
Playing the Colombian Drug Lord in “Miami Twice”
UK audiences will forever remember Mario Ernesto Sánchez for his brilliant turn in the two-part Christmas special “Miami Twice,” which aired in 1991. In these episodes, Del Boy and Rodney travel to Miami, only to become entangled with the mafia in a comedic yet suspenseful storyline.
Sánchez played a fictional Colombian drug lord—visually and thematically inspired by the popular Scarface-style villains of that era. His character was slick, menacing, and smart—offering a sharp contrast to the lovable buffoonery of Del and Rodney. It was a perfect blend of tension and humor.
The storyline sees the Trotters mistakenly caught up in a mob plot that closely mirrors The Godfather and Miami Vice, with Sánchez’s performance anchoring the entire mafia narrative. He gave the role just enough menace without tipping into caricature, making the danger feel real while allowing the humor to breathe.
Despite being a guest star, his performance stood out so much that fans continue to reference it more than three decades later. His presence elevated the special into something more than just a holiday edition—it became an adventure.
Behind the Scenes of “Miami Twice”
The production of “Miami Twice” was a unique challenge for the Only Fools and Horses cast and crew. Filming in Florida marked a departure from their usual London settings, adding exotic flair to the holiday special. Sir David Jason, who portrayed Del Boy, once remarked that this was one of his favorite episodes to film, crediting the camaraderie among the cast and guest stars like Sánchez for making it so memorable.
Jason spoke highly of Sánchez in interviews, describing him as “a professional’s professional”—someone who arrived prepared, brought a calming presence to the set, and lifted the performances of everyone around him.
Sánchez’s role was essential to balancing the episode’s comedic tone with the stakes of the mafia plot. His performance added credibility and weight to the storyline, allowing the audience to believe that Del and Rodney were genuinely in over their heads. Without him, the Miami misadventure might not have been half as fun—or half as thrilling.
Beyond Del Boy: His Hollywood and Theatre Contributions
Appearances in “Miami Vice” and Other Shows
While Only Fools and Horses brought him fame in the UK, Sánchez also built an impressive resume in American television. His recurring appearances on Miami Vice showcased his range as a dramatic actor. On Vice, he often portrayed law enforcement officials or underworld characters, delivering lines with quiet intensity and commanding presence.
He also made guest appearances on a variety of other American dramas, including Hill Street Blues, The Equalizer, and Law & Order, where he became known for his dignified portrayals of complex, morally nuanced characters.
His ability to straddle both British comedy and American crime drama is a testament to his versatility. Not many actors could pull off a convincing mafia boss one day and a Cuban exile hero the next—but Sánchez did, with ease and elegance.
Founder of Teatro Avante and Hispanic Theater Pioneer
Perhaps the greatest achievement of Mario Ernesto Sánchez’s life was the founding of Teatro Avante in Miami. Established in 1979, this non-profit cultural organization aimed to promote Hispanic theater in South Florida and beyond. Under his leadership, the organization became a beacon for Latino artists and audiences, producing dozens of acclaimed plays each year.
Sánchez also launched the Miami International Hispanic Theater Festival, drawing talent from across Latin America, Spain, and the United States. The festival became one of the largest of its kind in the world and earned Sánchez accolades for his efforts to preserve and promote Hispanic culture.
He saw theater not just as entertainment, but as a tool for education, empowerment, and expression—especially for the Cuban exile community that formed a significant part of Miami’s identity.
