Nora Aunor, a beloved figure in Philippine film and music, has passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind a rich legacy of artistry and inspiration.
Nora Aunor, Legendary Philippine Actress, Passes Away at 71

Nora Aunor, Legendary Philippine Actress, Passes Away at 71
Tributes pour in for Aunor, a cultural icon who shaped Philippine cinema.
In a tragic announcement made by her children on social media, the film industry mourns the loss of Nora Aunor, one of the Philippines' most revered cinematic talents. Details surrounding her passing remain undisclosed. "Her unmatched talent, grace, and passion for the craft touched generations," her daughter, actress Lotlot de Leon, expressed on Instagram.
Aunor, who rose from a humble background in Iriga City, enjoyed a prolific career spanning over seven decades, excelling in television, music, and film. In 2022, she received the prestigious title of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the arts community. She initially gained fame as a singer in the 1960s and later transitioned to acting, compiling a remarkable portfolio of over 200 film and television credits.
One of her notable performances came in the critically acclaimed 1995 movie "The Flor Contemplacion Story," where she portrayed a Filipino maid facing the death penalty in Singapore—a role that earned her multiple awards both locally and internationally. Aunor also garnered accolades such as the Best Actress award at the 7th Asian Film Awards in 2013 for her role in "Thy Womb."
Her personal life included a significant marriage to actor Christopher de Leon from 1975 to 1996, with whom she shared five children. In a heartfelt tribute, her son Kristoffer Ian De Leon described her as "the heart of our family," recognizing her kindness and wisdom.
Nora Aunor's most recent appearance was in the 2024 TV series "Lilet Matias, Attorney-at-Law," alongside a special cameo in the musical "Isang Himala." Her passing marks the end of an era, yet her contributions to Philippine cinema and culture will forever be cherished.
Aunor, who rose from a humble background in Iriga City, enjoyed a prolific career spanning over seven decades, excelling in television, music, and film. In 2022, she received the prestigious title of National Artist for Film and Broadcast Arts, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the arts community. She initially gained fame as a singer in the 1960s and later transitioned to acting, compiling a remarkable portfolio of over 200 film and television credits.
One of her notable performances came in the critically acclaimed 1995 movie "The Flor Contemplacion Story," where she portrayed a Filipino maid facing the death penalty in Singapore—a role that earned her multiple awards both locally and internationally. Aunor also garnered accolades such as the Best Actress award at the 7th Asian Film Awards in 2013 for her role in "Thy Womb."
Her personal life included a significant marriage to actor Christopher de Leon from 1975 to 1996, with whom she shared five children. In a heartfelt tribute, her son Kristoffer Ian De Leon described her as "the heart of our family," recognizing her kindness and wisdom.
Nora Aunor's most recent appearance was in the 2024 TV series "Lilet Matias, Attorney-at-Law," alongside a special cameo in the musical "Isang Himala." Her passing marks the end of an era, yet her contributions to Philippine cinema and culture will forever be cherished.