Super Bowl LIV was supposed to be a night filled with excitement, celebration, and unforgettable memories. For Adan Manzano, a rising star in broadcast journalism, it was a career milestone he had worked tirelessly to reach. Known for his dedication to sports reporting and his deep connection to the community, Adan was in New Orleans to cover the big game for Telemundo Kansas City and Tico Sports. But instead of being remembered for his passionate reporting from the sidelines, the world is now mourning his tragic and untimely passing.
At just 27 years old, Adan Manzano had already made a name for himself as a hardworking and passionate journalist. He had covered the Super Bowl for three consecutive years, starting in the broadcast booth and eventually earning a promotion to sideline reporter in 2024. For Adan, that leap was a dream come true. “I used to dream about this, but I never expected it would come so soon. It’s just a blessing,” he once said. This opportunity represented not just professional growth but the fulfillment of a personal goal. Being the sole representative of Telemundo Kansas City in New Orleans for Super Bowl LIV underscored his commitment to his craft and the trust placed in him.
But the excitement of the game was suddenly overshadowed by heartbreak. On February 6, 2025, Adan was found unresponsive in his hotel room in Kenner, Louisiana, just outside of New Orleans. According to reports from NOLA.com and later confirmed by the Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office, there were no signs of trauma to his body. While an autopsy has already been conducted, officials have stated that the final cause of death is still pending further medical testing.
The news of his passing sent shockwaves through the journalism and sports communities. KGKC Telemundo Kansas City released a heartfelt statement acknowledging the immense loss and honoring Adan’s talent and passion. “Adan was an exceptional professional and a rising star whose dedication and talent reflected excellence in his work,” the station said. “We will deeply miss Adan, his passion for sports, and the contributions he made to the local community.”
Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas also expressed his condolences, noting Adan’s deep connection to the community. “Adan was so young and full of energy, and truly covered almost every event in the community. So very sad to see this news. My condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.”
Adan’s career was more than just a job to him—it was a way to connect cultures and bring communities together. Born in Mexico City, he later graduated from Kansas State University and joined the Kansas City Chiefs Television Crew. In the previous NFL season, he began his role as a sideline reporter for the Spanish-language broadcasts of the Kansas City Chiefs. He was also the play-by-play announcer for the KC Current, Kansas City’s professional women’s soccer team. Adan brought a unique voice to the Spanish-speaking community, helping bridge the gap between cultures through his love of football.
He once shared his perspective in an interview with KSNT-TV: “The Kansas City Chiefs are growing so fast in Mexico City,” he said. “Bringing that to the Spanish community because the Hispanic and Latinos—they’ve supported soccer culturally and historically, but there’s always a space where football can be the favorite sport. That’s why I think it’s important.” His enthusiasm and passion for growing the NFL’s presence among Latino audiences was evident in everything he did.
His colleagues at Tico Sports and Telemundo Kansas City described him as a vital part of their team. “He will be greatly missed by our TICO Family and will live on in our hearts and memories,” the station said. They also confirmed they are cooperating fully with authorities as the investigation into his death continues.
Beyond his professional life, Adan was a devoted father to his young daughter, Eleanor. He loved her dearly, and his social media was filled with expressions of his love and pride. Tragically, Eleanor lost her mother, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd Manzano-Aguilar, less than a year earlier, on April 11, 2024. Ashleigh, only 24 years old, died in a multi-vehicle accident southwest of Topeka. An infant passenger in her car was left with serious injuries, and another driver involved in the crash was also hospitalized.
Ashleigh was remembered in her obituary as “the kindest, most caring, and beautiful person.” Her light and warmth were described as contagious, with a smile that could brighten any room. Adan held her memory close, including a touching tribute in his Instagram bio that read, “Always in my heart @ashleighboyd37 ❤️🕊.”
When Eleanor’s mother passed away, she was only 15 months old. Despite the challenges of being a single parent, Adan made sure to always keep Eleanor close to his heart, even when he was on the job. At a media event hosted by the Kansas City Current, he wore a custom jersey with Eleanor’s name printed on the back. He captioned the moment with, “There is this girl who stole my heart and something tells me I am going to love her forever🎀.” It was a small but powerful glimpse into the depth of his love for his daughter.
The sudden loss of Adan Manzano is a heartbreaking reminder of how fleeting life can be. He was a passionate journalist, a loving father, and a cherished friend and colleague. His energy, talent, and compassion left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. The legacy he leaves behind is one of resilience, dedication, and love—both for his work and his family. Though his time was far too short, the impact he made in the lives of others will continue to be felt for years to come. May his memory serve as a source of inspiration and comfort to those who mourn him, and may his story remind us to live with purpose, gratitude, and heart.
