Héctor Rivera

Héctor Rivera is the deuteragonist of Coco, revealed to be Miguel’s true great-great-grandfather, Mamá Imelda's husband, and the real songwriter behind Ernesto de la Cruz's fame. Murdered at age 21 by Ernesto via poisoning to steal his music, Héctor spent decades in the Land of the Dead trying to return home to his daughter, Coco. Key Details About Héctor: Background and Death: Born in 1900, Héctor married Imelda and had a daughter, Coco. He was murdered in 1921 when he decided to quit his music career with partner Ernesto de la Cruz to return to his family. True Identity: He is not a "deadbeat" as the family believed, but a devoted father who was betrayed by his childhood best friend, Ernesto. The "Remember Me" Song: Héctor wrote "Remember Me" as a lullaby for his daughter, Coco, not for the world-renowned fame Ernesto achieved with it. Afterlife Struggle: Due to being forgotten and falsely remembered as a traitor by his family, Héctor was fading away (suffering a "final death") because Coco was losing her memory of him. Appearance: He is recognized by his torn purple sweater, one missing sleeve, and a red bow tie. He is a lanky, charming, and mischievous, yet deeply emotional character. Relationship with Miguel: He helps Miguel return to the Land of the Living and ultimately earns his spot back on the family ofrenda, allowing him to cross the bridge to see Coco again. Héctor Rivera (November 30, 1900 – December 13, 1921) was an exceptionally talented musician and songwriter from Santa Cecilia. While the world initially credited his work to Ernesto de la Cruz, Héctor's legacy was eventually restored through the efforts of his great-great-grandson, Miguel. Early Life and Career Marriage and Family: Héctor married Imelda at approximately age 17, and they had their daughter, Coco, in 1918. Musical Duo: He grew up with Ernesto de la Cruz and eventually traveled with him on musical tours across Mexico.