Hip-hop icon Fat Joe is grieving the loss of his father, Ernesto Cartagena, who passed away on February 12, 2025, at the age of 89.
The Grammy-nominated rapper took to Instagram to share an emotional tribute, reflecting on the life and legacy of his beloved father.
A Heartfelt Farewell
“Sad to announce the passing of my Father ‘ERNESTO AKA CUBA’ papi te quiero para siempre,” Joe wrote alongside a touching carousel of family photos.
“This has been tough, I’m not looking for sympathy, just honoring my Dad. He’s a Legend in my eyes. To my Mom, Wife, Brothers, and Sisters, I love you and we’ll always be united. 9/15/1935 – 2/12/2025.”
One of the standout photos in the tribute shows Fat Joe embracing his father, both smiling, a moment capturing the deep bond they shared.
A Father’s Influence
In his biography, Joe reflected on his childhood, describing himself as stubborn but credited his father with teaching him the true value of hard work. Growing up in the Bronx, Joe often spoke about how his father’s influence shaped his work ethic and success in music.
A Journey of Transformation
Joe’s tribute comes after a year of major personal change. The rapper, who has been open about his struggles with weight, recently revealed that he shed over 200 pounds with the help of Ozempic and a low-carb diet.
He told US Weekly in October:
“We just try to eat everything with the least carbs as possible. So we try to stay away from the bread, the pasta, the rice. That’s the smartest way to eat.”
He also shared that his wife of 29 years, Lorena Cartagena, misses his former larger frame, admitting:
“She likes me being a big boy.”
Honoring Family & Legacy
Joe has always been a family-first man. His journey to better health and mental clarity began more than two decades ago after the tragic passing of his close friend and mentor, Big Pun, who died from a heart attack at just 29 years old in 2000.
His father’s passing is undoubtedly a tough loss, but Joe’s words of strength, unity, and love show just how deeply he values family.
Rest in peace, Ernesto Cartagena.
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