Remembering Francisco San Martin: The Life, Career, and Legacy of a Beloved Soap Star

The world of daytime television was struck with profound grief on January 16, 2025, when news broke of the passing of Francisco San Martin at the age of 39. Best known to soap opera fans for his role as Dario Hernandez on Days of Our Lives, Francisco’s death—tragically ruled a suicide by ligature hanging—sent shockwaves through Hollywood, leaving fans, colleagues, and loved ones devastated.

This loss not only marked the end of a bright and promising career but also underscored the urgent, ongoing conversation about mental health in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Roots in Performance

Born on August 27, 1985, on the sun-drenched island of Mallorca, Spain, Francisco’s upbringing was a blend of cultures and landscapes. His family later relocated to Montana, USA, where he grew up surrounded by the rugged beauty of the American heartland.

As a child, Francisco discovered acting through local theater productions. In his own words, acting was his “escape,” a way to explore the complexities of his bicultural identity while finding joy in embodying characters.

His teenage years took him back to Spain, this time to Madrid, where his artistic journey deepened. He began modeling, but his true calling was the stage. Immersed in Madrid’s vibrant theater scene, Francisco sharpened his craft before transitioning into television and film roles. Eventually, Hollywood’s lure brought him back to the United States, setting him on the path to international recognition.

Breakthrough on Days of Our Lives

Francisco’s defining role came in 2010, when he joined Days of Our Lives as Dario Hernandez, a complex character who began as a thief but was later revealed to be investigating a cold-case murder tied to his family’s past.

Although he appeared in just 59 episodes from 2010 to 2011, his performance made a lasting impression. Viewers praised his ability to deliver both charm and intensity, elevating Dario from a potential villain to a layered, sympathetic figure.

His chemistry with co-stars—particularly Camila Banus (Gabi Hernandez), Galen Gering (Rafe Hernandez), and daytime veterans like Kristian Alfonso (Hope Brady)—cemented his place in Days history. Fans often cite his portrayal as the most memorable incarnation of Dario, even after the role was later recast.

Expanding His Career

Francisco’s career stretched far beyond Salem:

• 2013: Appeared in Behind the Candelabra, Steven Soderbergh’s acclaimed HBO biopic starring Michael Douglas and Matt Damon.

• 2017: Joined Jane the Virgin on The CW as Fabian, a romantic interest whose storylines blended humor, passion, and heartbreak.

• 2017: Returned to soaps in The Bold and the Beautiful, playing Matteo, a suave estate manager entangled in Sheila Carter’s schemes.

• 2022: Starred in Dot, a poignant short film exploring themes of connection and loss.

This wide range of work reflected Francisco’s versatility—he could seamlessly transition between comedic, romantic, and villainous roles.

Tributes and Industry Mourning

Following his passing, tributes poured in from across the entertainment world.

• Camila Banus (Gabi Hernandez) shared a heartfelt Instagram story, writing: “Pepe, what can I say but I love you and rest in peace, my friend. Love you mucho, mucho, mucho. I wish I had told you more.”

• Galen Gering (Rafe Hernandez) described him as “the heart of the Hernandez family, both on and off screen.”

• Fans flooded social media with hashtags like #RIPFranciscoSanMartin and #RememberingDario, sharing clips, memories, and personal anecdotes.

His passing also reignited painful reminders of other recent soap world tragedies, including the deaths of Billy Miller, Alec Musser, and Robyn Bernard, all of whom highlighted the toll of mental health struggles within the industry.

A Legacy of Light and Resilience

Francisco’s story was one of resilience, passion, and determination. From a childhood spent between Spain and Montana to a career spanning international borders, he embodied the dreams of countless aspiring performers. His bilingual background and ability to connect across cultures made him a distinctive voice in Hollywood.

Even as his life ended far too soon, his body of work and the impact he left on fans and colleagues endure. His portrayal of Dario Hernandez remains a beloved chapter in Days of Our Lives history, while his roles on Jane the Virgin and The Bold and the Beautiful showcased his magnetic screen presence.

A Call for Awareness

Francisco’s death serves as a sobering reminder of the silent battles faced by those in the entertainment industry. The glamour of Hollywood often conceals immense pressures, loneliness, and emotional tolls.

In the wake of his loss, advocates and fans alike have emphasized the importance of accessible mental health resources. Organizations such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (dial 988 in the U.S.) continue to spread awareness and offer support for those in need.

Remembering Francisco

At 39, Francisco San Martin’s life was brimming with unfulfilled promise. Yet, in his time with us, he left a profound mark—through his performances, his passion, and the connections he fostered with audiences worldwide.

For fans of Days of Our Lives and beyond, he will be remembered not for the tragic way his story ended, but for the joy, intensity, and artistry he brought to every role.