Ernesto de la Cruz

The greatest musician in the history of Mexico

Coco · Pixar · 2017

Who is he?

Ernesto de la Cruz is a legendary singer, songwriter and film star from the town of Santa Cecilia, Mexico. His movies, his concerts and his signature song made him a national idol, and young Miguel Rivera worships him.

In the Land of the Dead his fame is just as enormous: he lives in a grand estate, throws spectacular shows and is adored by the crowds. But the polished image hides a much darker story, which drives the plot of the film.

Quick facts

Full nameErnesto de la Cruz
HometownSanta Cecilia, Mexico
ProfessionSinger, songwriter, actor
Role in the filmAntagonist
Voiced byBenjamin Bratt
Motto“Seize your moment”
FilmCoco (2017), dir. Lee Unkrich

Story

  1. Rise to fame From Santa Cecilia, Ernesto becomes the most celebrated entertainer in Mexico, known for his showmanship, his films and his unforgettable songs.
  2. Miguel’s idol Miguel secretly dreams of becoming a musician and models himself on Ernesto, even though music is forbidden in his family.
  3. The Land of the Dead On the Day of the Dead, Miguel crosses over and sets out to find his hero, believing Ernesto to be his great-great-grandfather.
  4. The truth comes out Miguel learns what really lay behind Ernesto’s success, and his admiration turns to a desperate fight to set things right before sunrise.