Gloria Romero, the “Queen of Philippine Cinema,” passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 25, her daughter Maritess Gutierrez announced the same day. She was 91 years old.
“It is with great sadness [that I] announce the passing of my beloved mother, Gloria Galla Gutierrez, aka Gloria Romero, who peacefully joined our Creator earlier today, January 25, 2025,” Maritess said in a statement.
“In this time of loss, our family deeply appreciates the support, prayers, sympathy, all the lovely messages, and heartfelt condolences that we've received. She will surely be missed dearly. May we continue to offer prayers for the eternal repose of her soul,” she added.
Her wake will be held at the Arlington Memorial Chapel in Quezon City, starting January 26 for her family and friends, while a public viewing will be held on early Monday, January 27 until 28. However, the public viewing will be cut short in the afternoon, to make way for the actress' family.
Born in Denver, Colorado in the United States on December 16, 1933, Gloria Anne Galla Gutierrez began appearing on screen as a background actor at 16. However, Gloria did not stay playing minor roles for long. In the 1950s, she was among the highest-paid actors, making her one of the greatest stars of the first Golden Age of Philippine Cinema.
After showing her acting chops in the 1954 film “Dalagang Ilocana,” Gloria continued to collect awards and nominations from various award shows. Her career spanned a good 70 years. She made continuous appearances in television shows and films, often portraying a loving grandmother. Her portrayal of diverse characters in television and film cemented her seat as an enduring force in the entertainment industry.
One of her last projects is the 2018 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) film “Rainbow Sunset,” where she starred alongside the late Eddie Garcia and Tony Mabesa. In the LGBT-themed family drama, Gloria plays a forgiving wife to her husband who decides to confront her and their children about his sexuality.
Her portrayal of the character won an award for Best Actress at the MMFF.
Despite her passing, the over 200 motion pictures and television shows she was a part of would continue to live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and admirers.
