Additional Coverage:
- Cindyana Santangelo, actor and model who lived the ‘party rock star life’ before getting sober, has died (latimes.com)
Malibu Philanthropist Cindyana Santangelo Dies Unexpectedly
Cindyana Santangelo, a vibrant presence known for her philanthropy, modeling, and acting career, passed away Monday evening. She was transported from her Malibu home on Westlake Boulevard to a nearby hospital where she was pronounced dead. While the cause of death remains unknown pending an autopsy, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s homicide investigators are involved in the investigation as a matter of standard procedure.
Santangelo, born Cindy Lehrer in Manhattan in 1967, was a familiar face in the entertainment world. Starting as a dancer, she appeared in several music videos in the late 80s and early 90s, notably Young MC’s “Bust a Move.”
She also made a memorable appearance in Jane’s Addiction’s video for “Stop,” delivering a Spanish introduction that led frontman Perry Farrell to dub her “the Latin Marilyn Monroe.” Under the name Cindyana Lair, she also graced the screen on the popular sitcom “Married…
With Children.”
Beyond her entertainment career, Santangelo was deeply committed to helping others struggling with addiction. As the director and CEO of Mermaids Cove Malibu, a luxury sober living facility for women, she drew on her own experiences to provide support and guidance. In promotional videos for Mermaids Cove, she candidly shared her journey from “party rock star life” to recovery, emphasizing her unique ability to connect with women facing similar challenges.
Santangelo’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through her community. Friends and loved ones took to social media to express their grief and celebrate her life.
Cynthia Banuelos, in a heartfelt Instagram post, described Santangelo’s spirit as “free as the wind” and her love as “deeper than the blue depths she adored.” Other friends, including actor Kimberly Russell, German actor Xenia Seeberg, and Samantha Bennington, wife of the late Linkin Park frontman Chester Bennington, shared their disbelief and sorrow, highlighting the profound impact Santangelo had on their lives.