The world of daytime television has been shaken to its very foundation with heartbreaking news that left both fans and cast members in disbelief. Beloved Days of Our Lives star Francisco San Martin, the actor remembered for bringing complexity and charisma to the role of Dario Hernandez, tragically ended his own life earlier this year. As the soap opera community reels from this devastating loss, we now look deeper into the shocking circumstances that surrounded his passing and the possible reasons why such a vibrant talent chose to say goodbye far too soon.

Francisco San Martin’s story was one of promise, persistence, and pain hidden behind the spotlight. Born in the stunning city of Mallorca, Spain, on August 27, 1985, Francisco carried with him a charm and warmth that made him stand out in any crowd. His family’s move to Montana during his childhood introduced him to a world far from the Mediterranean coastline, but it was there, under the big American sky, that he first discovered his love for performance through children’s theater. That early passion became the foundation of a career that would later bring him global recognition.

Before Hollywood, Francisco pursued modeling in Madrid, where his striking Mediterranean looks quickly gained him attention. But while he found success on the runways, his heart remained tied to acting. He took theater roles, appeared in Spanish TV and film, and honed his craft until he was ready for bigger opportunities. His move back to the United States became the turning point of his career.

When he stepped onto the Days of Our Lives set in 2010 as Dario Hernandez, audiences were unsure what to expect. At first, his character was presented as a questionable outsider—a petty thief who seemed destined for trouble. But Francisco’s layered performance transformed Dario into something much more: a man searching for justice and redemption. Over 59 episodes, he gave the character depth, complexity, and humanity, making fans fall in love with him. His on-screen connection with Camila Banus (Gabi Hernandez, his on-screen sister) became one of the most memorable family pairings on the show during that era.

Even after his run ended in 2011, his mark on Salem was undeniable. The role was later recast, but fans never forgot Francisco’s original portrayal. His career blossomed beyond daytime dramas as well. He appeared in Steven Soderbergh’s HBO film Behind the Candelabra alongside Matt Damon and Michael Douglas, joined The Bold and the Beautiful as Matteo, and even starred in Jane the Virgin as Fabian, winning over a younger audience with his humor and romantic presence.

Yet, behind the charisma and talent, shadows loomed. On January 16, 2025, the Los Angeles County Coroner confirmed the actor’s death at age 39. The cause: suicide by hanging. The announcement stunned fans worldwide. How could someone so full of life and talent carry such unbearable pain in silence?

The weeks following his passing revealed fragments of a more complicated reality. Friends noted he had withdrawn in recent months. Soap journalist Michael Fairman recalled seeing him at the gym often but noticed he had grown quieter after the holidays. His social media, once active and vibrant, had gone silent for nearly eight months, with only a cryptic New Year’s post captioned “Reset mode.” Colleagues and fans later interpreted it as a quiet cry for help that went unnoticed.

Speculation swirled about possible causes. Some tabloids suggested financial struggles, but no legal records or bankruptcy filings supported those claims. He lived modestly, drove an older Prius, and paid his dues faithfully. Others whispered about career stagnation—Francisco had fewer roles after 2022, and a shelved pilot project in late 2024 might have intensified his feelings of rejection. Add to that the stress of navigating visa renewals and permanent residency paperwork, a process that often drags on with uncertainty and heavy costs, and it paints the picture of a man under immense pressure.

Still, no single explanation seems to hold the entire truth. Depression is considered a strong possibility, though it was never publicly confirmed. His silence and withdrawal suggest he may have been battling internal demons unseen by the outside world. His family in Spain released only a brief statement asking for privacy, fueling speculation that his struggles may have been deeply personal and shielded from even those closest to him.

The timeline of his final weeks is haunting. He attended a charity gala in December but left early. He missed a scheduled recording session in January, with “the flu” cited as the reason. Neighbors reported hearing loud music late at night just days before his death. Then, on that tragic January morning, his housekeeper discovered his body—an ending that none of his friends, family, or fans could have foreseen.

Tributes poured in immediately. Camila Banus posted a tearful message on Instagram: “Rest in peace, my friend. Te amo mucho mucho. I wish I had told you more.” Her words struck fans deeply, capturing the mix of love and regret that comes when someone leaves too soon. Across the soap opera world, actors, journalists, and fans shared memories, highlighting not only his talent but his kindness, humility, and ability to make others smile even while carrying his own burdens.

Francisco San Martin’s passing underscores a painful truth—that even those who appear vibrant and successful may be fighting silent battles. His story is not only a reflection on his remarkable contributions to television but also a call for greater awareness of mental health in the entertainment industry. The unpredictable life of an actor—filled with highs of recognition and lows of rejection—can take a heavy toll, and his death joins a heartbreaking list of other performers lost too soon.

As fans remember him for the joy he brought through his characters, we are reminded of the importance of looking beyond the spotlight. For those struggling, silence is not safety—it is a mask. Support systems, open conversations, and mental health resources are critical to preventing such devastating losses in the future.

While Francisco’s career ended tragically, his legacy lives on through every scene he performed, every fan he touched, and every colleague who will carry his memory. Salem may never see Dario Hernandez again, but the man who gave him life will remain etched in the hearts of all who knew him.

If you or someone you know is struggling, confidential help is available. In the U.S., dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For those elsewhere, local hotlines provide the same support. Francisco’s story is a sobering reminder: you are never truly alone, even when it feels like it.