Dolphy, also known as Rodolfo Vera Quizon Sr., was a Filipino comedian and actor who is widely regarded as the country’s “King of Comedy” for his comedic talent embodied by his long roster of works on stage, radio, television and movies. He died on July 10, 2012, at the age of 83, just 15 days before his 84th birthday. His death was caused by multiple organ failure, secondary to complications brought on by pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and acute renal failure. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Dolphy, as well as the circumstances and impact of his death.
Early Life and Career of Dolphy
Dolphy was born on July 25, 1928, in Tondo, Manila, to Melencio Espinosa Quizon and Salud de la Rosa Vera. He had four brothers and five sisters. He started studying at the age of six, and attended public schools until the seventh grade. He then studied at the Florentino Torres High School until his sophomore year. He was an average student, although his grades fluctuated.
Dolphy sold peanuts and watermelon seeds at movie theaters as a boy, which enabled him to watch movies for free. He was about thirteen when World War II started. He did odd jobs including shining shoes, attaching buttons at a pants factory, sorting bottles by size, working as a stevedore at the pier, trading, and driving the calesa. In his free time, he regularly watched stage shows at the Life Theater and the Avenue Theater. His favorite performers included the comedy duo Pugo and Togo and the dancers Benny Mack and Bayani Casimiro.
Dolphy started performing onstage during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines. When he turned 17, Benny Mack got him a job as a chorus dancer for a month at the Avenue Theater and subsequently on the Lyric Theater. He also appeared in shows at the Orient Theater. “Golay” was his first stage name. During air raids, they would interrupt the show and run for the air-raid shelter in the orchestra section together with the audience. If no bombs fell and exploded, the show would then resume.
He starred in his first movie when he was 19 with Fernando Poe Sr. in Dugo at Bayan (I Remember Bataan), billed as Rodolfo Quizon. It was the father of his future friend actor Fernando Poe Jr. who first gave him a break in films playing minor roles as a character actor. He later adopted the stage name “Dolphy”, which was given to him by a Chinese producer.
Dolphy became famous for his comedic roles in movies such as Jack en Jill, Facifica Falayfay, Fefita Fofonggay, and John en Marsha. He also starred in television shows such as Home Along Da Riles, Pidol’s Wonderland, and Quizon Avenue. He was known for his versatility and ability to portray different characters, such as gay, poor, rich, old, young, and even animals. He was also a generous and humble person, who helped many aspiring actors and comedians in the industry. He received numerous awards and recognition for his contributions to Philippine entertainment, such as the Grand Collar of the Order of the Golden Heart, the People’s Artist Award, and the National Artist Award.
Dolphy’s Illness and Death
Dolphy had been suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for several years, which made him prone to respiratory infections. He was hospitalized several times due to pneumonia and other complications. He also had diabetes, which he was unaware of until his death.
On June 9, 2012, Dolphy was rushed to the Makati Medical Center due to difficulty in breathing. He was diagnosed with severe pneumonia and acute renal failure. He was placed under intensive care and underwent dialysis and blood transfusion. He was also given antibiotics and steroids to fight the infection and reduce the inflammation in his lungs. His condition improved slightly, but he remained in a critical state.
On July 10, 2012, Dolphy’s vital signs deteriorated and he suffered from multiple organ failure. He was pronounced dead at 8:34 p.m. (Philippine time), surrounded by his family and loved ones. His death was announced by his long-time partner, actress Zsa Zsa Padilla, and his son, actor-director Eric Quizon. He was survived by Padilla and his 18 children from different relationships.
Dolphy’s Legacy and Impact
Dolphy’s death was mourned by millions of Filipinos, who considered him as a national treasure and a source of joy and laughter. His fans and colleagues paid tribute to him by holding vigils, masses, and candle-lighting ceremonies. His wake was held at the Heritage Park in Taguig, where thousands of people lined up to pay their respects. His funeral was held on July 15, 2012, and was attended by President Benigno Aquino III, Vice President Jejomar Binay, and other prominent figures. He was buried at the same park, next to his son, actor Rolly Quizon, who died in 1997.
Dolphy’s legacy lives on through his works, which are still being shown on television and online platforms. His influence can also be seen in the current generation of comedians and actors, who emulate his style and humor. He is also remembered for his philanthropy and generosity, as he supported various causes and charities, such as the Dolphy Aid Para sa Pinoy Foundation, which provides scholarships and livelihood assistance to poor Filipinos.
Dolphy was a legend and an icon of Philippine comedy, who made millions of people laugh and smile with his talent and charisma. He was a man who loved his craft, his family, and his country. He was a man who left a mark in the hearts and minds of his fans and followers. He was a man who will never be forgotten.
