Rudy Concepcion was at the height of his career when he died of peptic ulcer in 1940. He was only 29 years old, gone too soon.
Thousands attended his burial, which was recorded by a Japanese newsreel cameraman, preserved in the film archives in Tokyo.
Rudy was known as the ‘idolong kayumanggi’ (brown idol), his very Filipino features contrasting with the mestizo and mestiza stars of the ‘30s and ‘40s.
His teamup with Rosario Moreno was acclaimed by the public. They starred in Mapait na Lihim, Tunay Na Ina and Pakiusap.
Rudy also appeared opposite Elsa Oria in Paroparong Bukid and Ikaw Rin, and with Yolanda Marquez in Gabay ng Magulang.
The actor was shooting Mahal Pa Rin Kita when he died. — RKC