Filipino actor Ricky Davao dies at 63. Look back at his iconic career, legacy in film & TV, and what made him a legend in Philippine entertainment.


Newsletter

wave

🇵🇭 Ricky Davao Passes Away at 63: Remembering a Filipino Cinema Legend

🎭 Veteran actor and director Ricky Davao, a beloved icon in the Philippine entertainment industry, has passed away at the age of 63. His daughter, Ara Davao, confirmed the heartbreaking news via social media, sharing that her father died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones after battling complications from cancer. 💔

Davao, born Frederick Charles Caballes Davao on March 23, 1961, in Manila, had a remarkable career that spanned more than four decades. His passing marks the end of an era, as he was one of the most versatile and well-respected artists in Philippine television and cinema.

🌟 Ricky Davao’s Contributions to Philippine Entertainment

Ricky Davao wasn’t just a familiar face—he was a symbol of excellence in acting and storytelling. He took on roles that ranged from heartwarming to socially provocative, always bringing depth to the screen.

🎬 Notable films:

  • Magnifico – a heart-touching indie gem

  • The Flor Contemplacion Story – based on true events

  • Big Night! – a satirical take on the drug war

📺 Memorable TV dramas:

  • Pangako Sa'Yo

  • Maalaala Mo Kaya

  • Magpakailanman

He earned widespread acclaim and respect for his emotional range and strong presence, becoming a household name for several generations of Filipinos.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Ricky Davao received numerous prestigious awards over the years, including from:

🏅 Gawad Urian
🏅 FAMAS (Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences)
🏅 PMPC Star Awards
🏅 Cinemalaya
🏅 QCinema International Film Festival

His performances in Abot Hanggang Sukdulan (1989), Deliver Us (2016), and the critically acclaimed FUCCBOIS (2019)—which he also directed—highlighted his commitment to socially relevant storytelling.

🎥 Recent & Upcoming Work

Even in his 60s, Ricky remained active in the industry. He starred in the Netflix film Sosyal Climbers and was set to appear in the upcoming GMA fantasy series Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre. 🌌

His continuous work proved his passion never faded, and his ability to evolve with time was unparalleled.

👨‍👧‍👦 Family & Legacy

Ricky Davao is survived by his three children — Ara, Kenneth, and Rikki Mae — with his former wife, actress Jackie Lou Blanco. The family, along with friends and fans, mourns a profound loss. 💐

His legacy will live on not just through his films and shows, but in the impact he had on aspiring actors and directors. He was a mentor, a pioneer, and a pillar of the entertainment community.

FAQ

Ricky Davao was a veteran Filipino actor and director known for his roles in films like Magnifico and FUCCBOIS, and TV shows like Pangako Sa'Yo.

He passed away due to complications related to cancer, as confirmed by his daughter Ara Davao.

Ricky Davao was 63 years old at the time of his death in 2025.

Some of his standout films include The Flor Contemplacion Story, Magnifico, FUCCBOIS, and Big Night!

Yes, he received multiple awards including Gawad Urian, FAMAS, Cinemalaya, PMPC Star Awards, and QCinema accolades.

Yes, he recently starred in Sosyal Climbers on Netflix and was part of the cast for Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre.

He had three children—Ara, Kenneth, and Rikki Mae—with his former wife Jackie Lou Blanco.

Many colleagues and fans have expressed sorrow and admiration for his contributions, honoring him as a true icon in Philippine cinema.

Search Anything...!