The Shocking Reason Why the DOOL Star Hanged Himself Revealed! | Days of Our Lives Spoilers 9/2025
Francisco San Martin: A Shining Talent Gone Too Soon
LOS ANGELES, CA – The soap opera community is mourning the tragic death of Spanish-born actor Francisco San Martin, best known for his role as Daario Hernandez on Days of Our Lives. The 39-year-old died by suicide on January 16, 2025, leaving fans and colleagues devastated.
Born on August 27, 1985, in Mallorca, San Martin’s journey to fame began after his family relocated to Montana, where he discovered his love for acting through local theater. His striking looks led to a successful modeling career in Spain, but his passion for performance eventually brought him to Hollywood.
San Martin’s breakout came in 2010 with Days of Our Lives, where he portrayed Daario Hernandez—a character that evolved from a petty thief to a complex figure driven by justice. His nuanced performance, particularly his chemistry with co-star Camila Banus, earned him critical praise during his 59-episode arc.
Beyond Salem, he appeared in the HBO film Behind the Candelabra, joined The Bold and the Beautiful as Matteo in 2017, and gained a new fanbase as Fabian in Jane the Virgin, where he brought romantic charm and comedic flair.
However, behind the screen, signs of personal struggle quietly emerged. According to the Los Angeles County Coroner, San Martin died by ligature hanging at his Studio City home. No criminal investigation is pending.
Friends have since spoken out, sharing subtle signs of change—withdrawal, social media silence, and professional setbacks. His last Instagram post on December 31st, a sunset photo captioned “Reset mode,” now carries chilling weight.
Rumors of financial distress were largely debunked. Court records show no debts, lawsuits, or bankruptcies, and former managers confirmed he lived modestly and responsibly. A misinterpreted GoFundMe post for a relative led to baseless speculation.
More credible stressors included immigration uncertainty—as he navigated the costly transition from an O-1 visa to permanent residency—and career stagnation, including the failure of a 2024 pilot to gain funding.
His last public appearance was at a holiday gala in December 2024. Witnesses noted he left early and avoided red carpet photos. He missed a voiceover session shortly before his death, with the excuse cited as flu.
Reactions from the soap opera world have been heartfelt. Camila Banus posted on Instagram, “Rest in peace, my friend. Te amo mucho. I wish I had told you more.” Others, including industry journalist Michael Fairman, expressed shock and sorrow, noting how well San Martin hid any signs of distress.
To date, there is no official confirmation of a mental health diagnosis, but patterns consistent with depression suggest that his struggles may have gone undetected.
This loss echoes others in the daytime TV community and reignites conversations about the mental health toll of an unstable entertainment industry. It is a sobering reminder of how easily high-functioning individuals can mask inner turmoil.
Francisco San Martin’s legacy is one of talent, depth, and kindness—an actor who gave everything to his roles and left a mark far beyond the screen.
