The Puerto Rican entertainment community is mourning the loss of Ramón Arrieta Nieves, the father of beloved comedian and presenter Raymond Arrieta. Known affectionately as “Don Millo,” Arrieta Nieves passed away on Tuesday night, April 14, 2026, leaving a void in the lives of his family and the many colleagues who viewed him as a mentor, and friend.
The news of the fallece el padre de Raymond Arrieta was shared during the broadcast of the program “Raymond y sus amigos” on Tuesday night. The show, which typically begins its weekly Tuesday broadcasts at 8:00 p.m. On Telemundo with a sense of joy, began instead with a somber announcement regarding the passing of the comedian’s father confirmed by the show’s cast.
Jorge Castro, a fellow comedian and colleague, informed the audience that Raymond Arrieta would not be participating in that evening’s edition of the program. Castro described Don Millo as a foundational figure in Raymond’s 40-year career, noting that he was not only a father but a “accomplice” and a driving force behind the comedian’s success in the industry.
The passing of Ramón Arrieta Nieves follows a period of declining health. In late March 2026, Raymond Arrieta had publicly requested prayers for his father, stating that he was going through a delicate health crisis. This struggle followed a previous battle with cancer in 2022, during which a tumor was successfully removed as shared by the animator.
A Legacy of Humor and Human Connection
Don Millo was regarded by many in the Puerto Rican media landscape as more than just the father of a celebrity. He was seen as a pillar of support and a source of the humor that Raymond Arrieta brought to the screen. During the announcement on “Raymond y sus amigos,” Jorge Castro emphasized that the professionalism and work of the cast were dedicated to the memory of Ramón Arrieta Nieves, describing him as a “wonderful being.”
The impact of Don Millo’s presence extended beyond the television studio. Figures from politics, entertainment, and the media across Puerto Rico have flooded social media with tributes, with some describing him as a “second father” in various public reactions. Among those expressing their grief was Dagmar Rivera, who stated that Don Millo had been like a father to her.
Beyond the public eye, stories have emerged highlighting the humanity Raymond Arrieta maintained even during this final trial. A local man, Alexander Quiñones, shared a touching account on Facebook regarding his experience at the Hospital Auxilio Mutuo. Quiñones revealed that his own mother was internada in the same cardiac intensive care unit where Don Millo was receiving treatment.
According to Quiñones, despite the immense pain of his father’s condition, Raymond Arrieta took a moment to speak with and smile at Quiñones’ daughters, providing a “beautiful memory” in the midst of a tragic environment. This gesture of kindness occurred shortly before both the father of the comedian and the mother of Quiñones passed away at the hospital.
The Influence of Don Millo on Puerto Rican Comedy
The relationship between Raymond Arrieta and his father was often visible to the public, including appearances during the “Da vida” walks. This public partnership underscored the deep bond and the shared sense of humor that defined their relationship. For those who have followed Arrieta’s trajectory over the last four decades, Don Millo was viewed as the catalyst for the comedian’s timing and delivery.
The loss of Ramón Arrieta Nieves marks a significant moment for the fans of “Raymond y sus amigos” and “Día a Día,” as the comedian’s father had become a beloved figure in his own right through his association with his son’s philanthropic and entertainment efforts. The outpouring of support from the public reflects the deep respect for the family’s contribution to the island’s cultural fabric.
Summary of Key Events
| Timeframe | Event |
|---|---|
| 2022 | Don Millo is diagnosed with cancer; a tumor is successfully removed. |
| Late March 2026 | Raymond Arrieta requests public prayers due to his father’s delicate health. |
| Tuesday, April 14, 2026 | Ramón Arrieta Nieves passes away. |
| Tuesday Night, April 14, 2026 | The death is announced on the program “Raymond y sus amigos” by Jorge Castro. |
As the family and colleagues navigate this period of grief, the Puerto Rican community continues to share memories of Don Millo’s humor and kindness. While the specific details of funeral arrangements have not been widely publicized, the entertainment industry remains in solidarity with Raymond Arrieta.
We invite our readers to share their condolences and memories of Don Millo in the comments section below.