Elizabeth Pena dies

Elizabeth Pena has died.

According to her nephew, Marino-Francisco Robles, the ‘La Bamba’ star passed away aged 55 in Los Angeles on Tuesday (14.10.14) after suffering from a brief illness.

Elizabeth enjoyed a career spanning four decades and following her performances in a New York theatre, landed her first professional role in Leon Ichaso’s ”El Super’ in 1978.

She then went on to star in ‘Batteries Not Included’, animated series ‘American Dad’, ‘I Married Dora’, ‘Rush Hour’ and Disney-Pixar’s ‘The Incredibles’.

She also had a recurring guest role on the hit ABC show ‘Modern Family’ in which she starred as Pilar, Sofia Vergara’s character Gloria’s mother.

Elizabeth had recently finished filming the action series ‘Matador’ for the El Rey network – who said they were ”deeply saddened” by the loss of the actress.

They said in a statement: ”We are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague, Elizabeth Pena.

”She was a role model, a truly extraordinary performer and an inspiration in every sense of the word. Our thoughts are with Elizabeth’s family and friends during this difficult time. She ‎will be deeply missed.”

Elizabeth leaves behind her two children and husband Hans Rolla, reports Variety.