When award-winning actress Denise Laurel publicly remembered her late uncle, legendary actor-singer Victor “Cocoy” Laurel, she didn’t just reflect on a family relation—she spotlighted a man who embraced kindness, talent, and artistry. From his iconic stage performances to the way he nurtured those around him, Denise’s heartfelt tribute is stirring both nostalgia and admiration.
💔 A Legacy Lost Too Soon
On June 14, 2025, the entertainment world mourned as Cocoy Laurel passed away at age 72, after battling cardiac arrest linked to multiple organ failure philstar.com+11en.wikipedia.org+11philstar.com+11. As the eldest son of former Vice President Salvador Laurel and theater icon Celia Diaz-Laurel, Cocoy’s death marked the end of an era.
A beloved figure known for his role as the Engineer in Miss Saigon and his celebrated on-screen pairing with Nora Aunor in Lollipops and Roses, Cocoy’s passing has left a void for both audiences and the Laurel clan smartparenting.com.ph+12en.wikipedia.org+12philstar.com+12.
🎭 Cocoy: The Artist Who Found the Best in Everyone
Denise Laurel, his niece and current GMA Network actress, fondly remembered him during an intimate requiem service. “He always saw the best in people,” she shared, her voice heavy with emotion. Though Denise didn’t specify every anecdote, her sentiment captured the essence of a mentor who uplifted everyone he encountered—family, friends, and younger talents alike.
That generosity was evident throughout Cocoy’s career. Known for his humility despite global stages—like starring in over 450 performances in Australia and London—he remained grounded, quietly giving back through mentorship and kindness .
🎶 From Broadway to Family Dinner Table
Cocoy’s artistic journey was global and deeply personal. He earned international acclaim, studying at Juilliard and starring in Miss Saigon’s West End and Australian productions khaleejtimes.com+7philstar.com+7vsr-starforallseasons.blogspot.com+7. Yet, family sources say he never lost his warmth. Sundays at the Laurel home in Mandaluyong would often feature impromptu music sessions with Denise playing alongside him at the piano entertainment.inquirer.net+7khaleejtimes.com+7en.wikipedia.org+7.
In many of Denise’s cherished childhood memories, “Tito Cocoy”—as she lovingly called him—offered both musical discipline and heartfelt encouragement, particularly during her own theatrical upbringing philstar.com+1khaleejtimes.com+1.
📚 Mentorship Rooted in Compassion
Denise saw firsthand how Cocoy inspired others with generosity and guidance. She remembers the confidence he instilled in family and juniors alike.
“He’s my mentor; he guides me and gives me all the encouragement along the way,” Denise recalled of Cocoy’s influence on her singing and career philstar.com+1vsr-starforallseasons.blogspot.com+1philstar.com+1philstar.com+1.
His support was not exclusive to Denise—his sister Iwi, composer Ryan Cayabyab, and many at Repertory Philippines describe him as “down-to-earth” despite his talent and pedigree khaleejtimes.com+7philstar.com+7philstar.com+7.
🌟 A True “Compleat Artist”
Cocoy’s legacy goes beyond mere accolades. He was described as a “compleat artist,” equally skilled in theater, film, music, and visual arts philstar.com. He composed songs like Uliran, performed Broadway hits, and painted portraits—demonstrating an artistic genius that Denise herself inherited.
Yet according to her, what really set him apart was his focus on people—not just spotlight or fame.
🕊️ A Gentleman Through and Through
Denise’s tribute wasn’t just to his artistic achievements—but to his humanity. She recounted how Cocoy avoided attention even as he performed demanding roles as Jean Valjean and the Engineer in Miss Saigon, showing a humility rare in showbiz en.wikipedia.org+3philstar.com+3philstar.com+3vsr-starforallseasons.blogspot.com+6philstar.com+6entertainment.inquirer.net+6.
Despite his success, he stayed shy—choosing genuine connection over the glamour that surrounded him . One key example was his presence at the wake of Nora Aunor in April 2025, where he offered silent strength despite facing personal health challenges .
🗣️ Reddit Remebrance: Fans See the Light Denise Throws
On Reddit, fans of Denise Laurel echoed the values she described. One user said:
“Her kindness and beauty talaga ay goddess level!” philstar.com+10reddit.com+10khaleejtimes.com+10
Another added how Denise remains grounded and kind despite her stature:
“She’s very friendly and kind…even with ordinary people…very genuine.” khaleejtimes.com+2teachingworld0.blogspot.com+2smartparenting.com.ph+2
These comments reinforce Denise’s portrayal of preserving her uncle’s spirit—uplifting others and always staying humble.
🔚 The Power of Family Values
Denise’s tribute highlights a powerful lesson: artistry paired with compassion forms a legacy that echoes beyond stages.
Her story shows that while technical talent is valuable, fostering authenticity and lifting others matters most—“seeing the best in people” changes lives. And in a world of fleeting fame, such moral depth becomes the lasting legacy.
✍️ Final Reflection
As Denise Laurel remembers her uncle, fans are reminded of the extraordinary power of kindness. Cocoy Laurel wasn’t just a theatrical icon—he was a mentor, family anchor, and gentle educator who helped shape generations of Filipino artists.
Denise’s heartfelt words—“He always saw the best in people”—aren’t merely a eulogy; they’re a guiding beacon. His legacy—a perfect marriage of artistic excellence and human warmth—will continue to inspire Denises, Ruyas, and all who cross their artistic paths.
In the end, Cocoy Laurel’s story reaffirms that greatness isn’t just measured in shows or awards—but in how deeply one touches hearts. And through Denise’s memory, that heartbeat remains alive.
