Biography
Ricardo González Gutiérrez (February 7, 1946 – March 8, 2021), known by his stage name Cepillín, was a Mexican clown, singer, television host, and actor.
Recognizable by his red nose and painted black beard, Cepillín combined comedy, music, dance, and ventriloquism in his performances on television and in the circus. His falsetto singing voice became well known through children’s songs, including his popular rendition of the traditional birthday song “Las Mañanitas.”
During a career that spanned more than five decades, Cepillín hosted television programs broadcast in Mexico and other Latin American countries, recorded albums that sold millions of copies, and performed widely with circus companies, including his own troupe and Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey. His television work included El Show de Cepillín, produced by Televisa, which mixed educational segments, comedy sketches, and celebrity interviews. The program achieved success in Mexico, Chile, and Puerto Rico, and featured international guests such as Lou Ferrigno.
González originally trained as a dentist. He began painting his face to reduce children’s fear during dental visits, which led to his adoption of the stage name “Cepillín,” derived from the Spanish word cepillo de dientes (toothbrush). His first appearance on local television drew public attention and launched his entertainment career.
As a recording artist, Cepillín released numerous children’s songs, among them La feria de Cepillín (Cepillín’s Fair), Tomás, En el bosque de la China (In China’s Forest), and La Gallina Cocoua. He also collaborated with and supported younger performers, including singer Yuri, who appeared in his film Milagro en el circo (Miracle in the Circus).
Cepillín remained active in entertainment until late in his life, later reaching audiences through social media platforms such as YouTube and TikTok.
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