Charo Embraces Aging and Finds Strength in Community
Charo, the well-loved pop culture icon known for her “Cucchi-Cucchi” persona, has often radiated confidence and charm. However, she now believes that her greatest qualities have flourished with age.
In a recent interview, the 75-year-old star, preparing for a series of upcoming concerts, reflected on celebrating her age, coping with the loss of her husband in 2019, and connecting with a new generation of fans via social media.
“There are two paths to take,” the “Love Boat” star remarked regarding the aging journey. “You can choose despair, feeling miserable, or you can be wise and pick the latter. I won’t let anyone walk over me again. I’m determined to learn from past mistakes and seek out new adventures while taking care of myself.”
“So, I opted for the positive route. A glass of champagne and chocolate, and I’m ready to embrace life,” she added. “I want every woman listening to realize it doesn’t matter how old you are. Each year brings new lessons and friendships, so it’s far better to be alive and wiser than to sulk in sorrow.”
Charo’s reflections come nearly seven years following the tragic passing of her husband, Kel Lasten.
“I was left reeling after his sudden death,” she shared. “I closed my eyes, trying to make sense of it all.”
“While I can’t return to the past, I’ve since matured in my understanding of him being gone. I can only pray for him now,” she noted, emphasizing the need to focus on living. “I often pray, asking for strength and asking, ‘Can I enjoy life?’”
She further recounted how, just two nights before his death, her husband had performed in Palm Springs. “He was so proud that night,” she recalled. “But the following evening, he seemed distant, and things took a tragic turn.”
Overwhelmed by grief, Charo sought comfort in a place she hadn’t fully appreciated before—her community of social media followers. “They really saved me,” she remarked, highlighting the diverse ages among her fans.
During the pandemic, she engaged with them through live videos and spontaneous cooking shows. “They became friends to me,” she reflected. “They think I’m supporting them, but it’s really the opposite. They keep me alert and alive.”
Now, Charo is excited to connect with fans directly at her upcoming performances. “I enjoy refreshing my show each season,” she explained. “Back in the day, there weren’t cell phones capturing every moment, so it was easier to repeat performances. That’s not the case now, and it motivates me to keep evolving.”
