Adrian Olivares, Former Menudo Band Member, Dead at 48

Adrian Olivares, an ex-member of famed Latin boy band Menudo, died at the age of 48 on Monday (July 8).

The news was confirmed by fellow bandmate Robert Avellanet, who shared a photo carousel on Instagram of the time they were both part of the group. “I’m still in shock! Strength for your family,” he captioned the post. “Happy transition to your soul. I will always remember his great sense of humor. We will meet there, brother. RIP Adrian.”

The official Menudo Instagram account also shared various throwback photos and videos in remembrance of Olivares. “Remembering Adrian, the 23rd member of Menudo, who brought joy to many from 1990-1993,” the group captioned its post. “His legacy will forever live in our hearts.”

Olivares, who hosted a podcast at Wynwood Radio, unexpectedly died at 5:30 a.m. on Monday, July 8, after being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease only a week ago, according to the GoFundMe page created by his loved ones and shared by Menudo. The disease was further complicated by ulcerative colitis.

“Adrian was an incredible father to his three daughters Eliana (18), and the twins Lia and Lilly (8),” the organizer wrote. “If you would please consider donating anything you can, it would be greatly appreciated as the family does not have the means to give Adrian his final farewell and help these girls with all their necessary expenses. All donations will be given to his mother, Natasha … Fly high Adrian, we love you!”

Olivares, from Mexico, formed part of Menudo from 1990 to 1993 when he was 13 to 16 years old, joining after Ricky Martin’s departure in 1989. He’s the third Menudo member of menudo to pass on, following Rey Reyes and Anthony Galindo.

See Menudo’s post remembering Olivares below: