A life in song and stage: Remembering Victor ‘Cocoy’ Laurel

Victor “Cocoy” Laurel, a celebrated actor in Philippine film and theater, passed away peacefully at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy defined by music, passion and the indelible impact of a life spent under the spotlight. His death was confirmed by his niece, singer and actress Nicole Laurel Asensio, in a heartfelt tribute on social media. The cause of death was not disclosed.

In a family steeped in public service and the arts, Cocoy Laurel carved a path uniquely his own — uniting the elegance of musical theater with the emotional depth of cinema. He was the son of the late Vice President Salvador “Doy” Laurel and renowned theater artist Celia Diaz Laurel, from whom he inherited a reverence for culture and a profound love for performance.

“He worshipped God and praised Him through his music and artistry and blessed others so generously,” wrote Nicole in a moving tribute. “We are incredibly grateful to you. You will always have a special place in our hearts.”

From film idol to theater luminary

Cocoy Laurel rose to prominence in the 1970s as a film heartthrob, with a boyish charm and soulful voice that captured hearts onscreen.

Among his most beloved film roles was his pairing with National Artist for Film Nora Aunor in Lollipops and Roses and Impossible Dream, where their chemistry lit up the screen and etched their partnership in Philippine pop culture. Their friendship endured over the decades, with Cocoy making one of his last public appearances at Nora Aunor’s wake in April.

While film brought him fame, it was on the stage where Laurel’s artistry reached transcendent heights. A longtime collaborator of Repertory Philippines, he starred in acclaimed productions including Les Misérables, where he portrayed the role of Jean Valjean with commanding grace and vocal prowess.

Internationally, Laurel brought pride to Filipino theater artists as a member of the original London cast of Miss Saigon, sharing the stage with Lea Salonga. His portrayal of the Engineer — first in London, and later in major stagings in Sydney and beyond — cemented his stature as a global performer, breaking boundaries for Asian actors in Western musical theater.

Legacy rooted in faith, family

Beyond the footlights and applause, Laurel was a man of deep spirituality and humility.

He remained devoted to his faith, often reflecting this in his music and personal life. His family describes him as not just a brilliant performer but a generous mentor, a loving brother and a man whose faith guided every note he sang and every role he played.

His artistry, much like the legacy of the Laurel family, extended across generations. In interviews, he often acknowledged the influence of his parents, his mother’s theatrical elegance, his father’s public service and channeled these into a career that honored both.

Final curtain, enduring applause

Victor “Cocoy” Laurel’s passing marks the end of a golden era, yet his voice, performances, and kindness will long echo in the hearts of those he touched. In theaters and living rooms, on screen and stage, he gave the Filipino audience the gift of his talent and soul.

As tributes pour in from peers, friends, and fans, one thing is clear: Cocoy Laurel was more than a performer — he was a pillar of Philippine musical theater, a gentleman of the stage and a bridge between tradition and evolution in the arts.