Mexican actor and comedian Mario Moreno, also known by his stage name Cantinflas, died at his home early Monday morning, April 20, 1993, at the age of 81. Moreno was born in 1911 in Mazatlán, Sinaloa. He discovered his passion for acting at an early age, and at age 17 moved to Mexico City to pursue his dream. While there, he joined the theatre company of Eduardo Arozamena and began performing under the pseudonym of Cantinflas, a name derived from the Spanish words “cantar” and “influencias.” In 1941, Moreno made his film debut in the movie No Te Engañes Corazón, and subsequently went on to star in more than 50 films. He is best remembered for his leads in Now Move (1954) and Around the World in 80 Days (1956). His comic performances blended his mastery of improvisation, his sharp wit, and his ability to incorporate a variety of dialects into his characters. Moreno won numerous accolades throughout his career, including an honorary Oscar for “increasing the joys of movie-going” in the 1957 State Department ceremony at the Los Angeles Statler Hilton Hotel. He was also one of the four founders of the Mexican Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and served as its president for several terms. Moreno is survived by two children, an ex-wife, and numerous fans who admired his decades-long career in the entertainment industry.