Anwar Zayden, a charismatic figure known for his flamboyant lifestyle and appearances in the 1980s television series Miami Vice, passed away unexpectedly on May 19, 2020, at the age of 58.
His sudden death left fans and friends mourning the loss of a man who embodied the vibrant spirit of Miami’s golden era. Born on October 8, 1961, in South Beach, Florida, Anwar Zayden was the son of Lebanese immigrants who fled their homeland in the late 1950s.
His father, Alfredo, worked for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), which led the family to live in various countries, including Lebanon, Venezuela, Spain, Puerto Rico, and Barcelona. Anwar grew up in a large family with four sisters and one brother.
Zayden’s career was as eclectic as his personality. He gained fame as a bull rider in rodeos, earning a substantial income that he invested in his art business, Art Express.
His striking looks and magnetic presence caught the attention of advertisers, leading to appearances in notable ad campaigns, including a Calvin Klein commercial. In 1986, he made his acting debut in Miami Vice, portraying Bolivian drug dealer Mendez in the episode “El Viejo” and later appearing as Alfredo Morega in “Badge of Dishonor”.
Zayden was a fixture in Miami’s social scene, known for his grand entrances and associations with celebrities like Sylvester Stallone, Donald Trump, Will Smith, Al Pacino, and George Bush . In 2012, he famously arrived on horseback at Thomas Kramer’s 50th birthday party, exemplifying his flair for the dramatic.
Despite his public persona, Zayden was known to be deeply private about his personal life. He had relationships with Yolanda Hadid Foster, with whom he was together for around seven years, and later with Anna Volotchko. He did not have any children.
The exact cause of Anwar Zayden’s death has not been officially disclosed. However, some reports suggest that he may have suffered from a pulmonary embolism, possibly linked to a previous leg injury . Other unverified sources have speculated alternative causes, but without official confirmation, these remain conjecture.
Anwar Zayden’s legacy is one of vivacity, charisma, and an unyielding zest for life. He was more than a socialite; he was a symbol of an era where Miami was synonymous with glamour and excess. His contributions to the arts, both through his business and his performances, left an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape.
Fans and friends continue to remember Zayden for his larger-than-life personality and the joy he brought to those around him. His story serves as a testament to living life unapologetically and embracing one’s true self.
As the community reflects on his passing, Anwar Zayden remains a cherished figure whose spirit continues to inspire.
