Silvio Horta, the Creator of Ugly Betty, Has Died

Silvio Horta, the creator, showrunner and head writer of the ABC television series Ugly Betty, was found dead on Tuesday in a hotel room in Miami, Fla. The cause of death has not yet been announced by the Miami-Dade Medical Examiner Department—however, there is evidence of a potential self-inflicted gunshot wound. Horta was 45 years old.

According to a statement issued by Horta’s family, he had an “ongoing struggle with addiction and depression,” which may have played a role in his death.

Ugly Betty star America Ferrera took to Instagram to mourn Horta’s death, saying, “His talent and creativity brought me and so many others such joy & light.”

I’m stunned and heartbroken to hear the devastating news of Ugly Betty creator, Silvio Horta’s death. His talent and creativity brought me and so many others such joy & light. I’m thinking of his family and loved ones who must be in so much pain right now- and of the whole Ugly Betty family who feel this loss so deeply.