The beloved Nora Aunor impersonator died peacefully surrounded by his family after a long battle with cancer, his loved ones announced
Comedian Ate Gay, whose real name is Gil Aducal Morales, has passed away at the age of 55, his family announced on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
The family shared the sad news through a post on the comedian’s own Facebook account. “It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that our family announces the passing of our beloved Gil Aducal Morales, lovingly known to many as Ate Gay, on November 1, 2026,” they wrote.
“After bravely fighting for his life, while surrounded by his family, our beloved Ate Gay has peacefully passed away,” the statement continued.
His loved ones also thanked everyone who helped them during his illness. “During this difficult time, our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who extended their prayers, love, financial assistance, and unwavering support throughout his battle. Your kindness and generosity have meant so much to our family,” they said.
“We kindly ask for your continued prayers for his eternal repose and for strength and comfort for our grieving family,” the family added, noting that details of the wake and funeral will be announced soon.
They ended their message with a final farewell: “Rest peacefully in the loving arms of our Lord, Ate Gay. You will forever remain in our hearts.” It was signed, “With love and gratitude, The Family of Gil Aducal Morales.”
Ate Gay revealed in September 2025 that he was battling Stage 4 mucoepidermoid carcinoma, a type of cancer, and went through chemotherapy and radiation treatment. On October 15, 2026, family and friends gave him a “living funeral” at a memorial park in Biñan, Laguna, so they could pay tribute to him while he was still alive.
In late October, his family said he had been placed in intensive care in critical condition after suffering septic shock and acute respiratory failure secondary to pneumonia, followed by a stroke that affected the right side of his brain.
Ate Gay was best known for his spot-on impersonation of Superstar Nora Aunor, an act that made him a familiar face in comedy bars and on television.