Being Overweight Gave 'El Chavo del 8''s Édgar Vivar the Role of A Lifetime with But It Also Almost Killed Him

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Édgar Vivar is one of the most recognized figures in Mexican acting and television, best known for his role as Señor Barriga in the iconic television series 'El Chavo del 8.'

His portrayal of the landlord in the beloved series brought him fame, recognition, and enduring affection from audiences across Latin America. However, the obesity that helped define his most iconic character nearly cost him his life four different times.

In a recent interview with Matilde Obregón, Vivar opened up about his lifelong struggle with obesity and the health challenges it caused.

The Mexican actor, who began his career in theater, revealed that his weight problems started at a young age. He faced bullying and endured the physical and emotional consequences of obesity, which shaped many aspects of his life.

"I've struggled with obesity since childhood. I was bullied and suffered the effects of being overweight. At one point, my weight reached dangerous levels," Vivar shared during the interview.

At his heaviest, Vivar weighed 373 pounds (169 kilograms), which led to severe health complications. He admitted to being admitted to intensive care four times and now relies on a filter in his vena cava to survive.

These frightening encounters with death prompted him to make drastic lifestyle changes for his health and avoid meeting an early end.

In 2009, Vivar underwent gastric bypass surgery to lose weight and prevent further complications brought on by his weight. Reflecting on the procedure, he said:

"It was an unusual situation. I had morbid obesity and suffered terrible consequences for it. Thank God I'm still here, but if you don't address your eating habits, your stomach is an organ that can stretch again. And you can't undergo another surgery," the legendary actor explained.

Beyond obesity, Vivar also faced two pulmonary embolisms, which left him dependent on a portable oxygen tank for a period.

Now alive and well at 75 years old, Édgar Vivar remains one of Latin America's most iconic television stars. Thanks to multiple treatments and medical interventions, he has managed to overcome his health challenges and continues to live without major complications.