Edgardo del Villar today announced his departure as anchor of Telemundo 47 and bid farewell to his audiences in a moving message, aired at the end of the station’s 6 pm newscast.
He shared he is leaving to focus on his battle with cancer.
Del Villar underwent surgery in August 2019, after being diagnosed with brain cancer. He was off the air for several months, returning to the anchor desk in November.
He took another medical leave earlier this year and had been off the air for several weeks, until his announcement today that he would not come back.
Here’s a translation of his heartfelt message:
“Hello, my friends. I’ve missed you. Allow me the honor of expressing my sincere appreciation for your trust and support, for welcoming me into your homes, for your many prayers, your well wishes and your love. I love you too.
You all know about my fight against cancer. It’s the toughest fight I’ve ever faced in my life. But I feel lucky, blessed, and eternally optimistic. I’ve decided to take some time to focus on my health, so you will no longer see me on Telemundo 47. It wasn’t easy, but all my efforts will now be applied to winning the battle against cancer.
With your continued prayers and well wishes, I know that I will be able to gain ground. Please keep in touch. I will share news on my progress whenever I can. I will continue to send blessings to you and your wonderful families.
Life has cycles that open and close, but they always leave us lessons that I will always cherish. I hope your cycles are full of happiness, adventure and love. Farewell, thank you and God bless you.”
Del Villar joined Telemundo 47 in 2017 after spending four years as a correspondent and anchor for Telemundo network in Miami. He replaced the legendary Jorge Ramos as main anchor, when he retired in 2018.
A station spokesperson says there are no plans to replace del Villar. Darling Burdiez will anchor the weeknight newscasts solo.
Message from Media Moves’ editor:
Edgardo, may you win the battle.