Renée Victor

Renée Victor (July 25, 1938 — May 30, 2025) was a multifaceted American actress, singer, and dance instructor, celebrated for her compelling performances across various mediums. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Abuelita in the acclaimed Disney•PIXAR film *Coco* (2017). Additionally, Victor made a significant impact on television with her recurring role as Lupita in the hit series *Weeds* (2005–2012) and lent her voice to the female Argonian characters in Bethesda Softworks' popular video game *The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim* (2011).

Born as the eldest of three sisters, Victor relocated to Los Angeles in the 1960s, where she began her artistic journey. She initially found success as a singer, performing with renowned bandleaders like Xavier Cugat and Pérez Prado, who played pivotal roles in popularizing Latin music in America. During this time, she also taught salsa and tango, further showcasing her passion for dance. In the 1960s, she partnered with her husband to create the musical duo “Ray & Renee,” often referred to as the Latin Sonny & Cher, and they toured internationally from 1963 to 1973.

The 1970s saw Victor hosting KTLA’s *Pacesetters*, which highlighted the Chicano Power movement. After joining the Screen Actors Guild in 1973, she transitioned into television and film in the 1980s, appearing in series such as *Scarecrow and Mrs. King* (1985) and *Matlock* (1987). Her film portfolio includes notable works like *The Doctor* (1991), *The Apostle* (1997), and *A Night in Old Mexico* (2013), where she shared the screen with her close friend Robert Duvall.