WASHINGTON, D.C. — Manuel Masalva, best known for his role as Ramon Arellano Félix in Netflix’s Narcos: Mexico, is in critical but stable condition after being placed in a medically induced coma due to a severe bacterial infection contracted while traveling in the Philippines, according to Deadline.
Emergency Surgery and Current Condition
Masalva’s manager, Jaime Jaramillo Espinosa of JIM Management, shared the update, revealing that the actor is currently hospitalized in Dubai, where he underwent emergency surgery in late March. The infection had reportedly reached his lungs, prompting immediate intervention.
Masalva is now on strong antibiotics, and there are early signs of improvement in his lung function, Espinosa confirmed.
Call for Help from a Friend
Masalva’s close friend and fellow actor Mario Morán took to Instagram to issue an emotional plea for support, both financially and spiritually, to help cover the enormous medical costs abroad.
“My brother is fighting for his life far from home,” Morán said.
“Any help, no matter how small, can make a difference in this difficult moment.”
Morán also thanked those who had already donated or shared supportive messages. While Masalva’s condition remains delicate, his loved ones are holding onto hope and faith as treatment continues.
View Morán’s full Instagram post here
A Rising Star in Latin American Television
Masalva earned international recognition for his portrayal of Ramon Arellano Félix, a key figure in the infamous Arellano Félix cartel, in Narcos: Mexico. His performance placed him alongside stars like Diego Luna, Michael Peña, Scoot McNairy, and Bad Bunny.
He also appeared in the Univision telenovela La Rosa de Guadalupe and the biographical drama La Guzmán.
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