Lyn May: The Mexican Showgirl Who Captivated Presidents and Overcame Tragedy

• 2025-04-23
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Discover the life of Lyn May, the iconic Chinese-Mexican showgirl who ruled Mexican cinema, survived a disastrous cosmetic procedure, and made headlines with shocking claims, including an affair with a former president..

Lyn May: A Legendary Mexican Showgirl Who Conquered Fame and Tragedy

Lyn May, the stunning Chinese-Mexican showgirl, ruled Mexican cinema in the '70s and '80s, appearing in nearly 100 films and captivating audiences worldwide. Known as “The Goddess of Love,” her life story is as dramatic and intriguing as her career.

But her journey wasn’t without its twists. A routine Botox session in the early '90s went terribly wrong, leaving Lyn with a drastically changed appearance. This setback would forever alter her career and personal life, but Lyn’s resilience shone through.

If you haven’t heard of Lyn May, you're missing out on a true icon of Mexican entertainment. Let's dive into her fascinating story!

From Humble Beginnings to Stardom

Born Lilia Guadalupe Mendiola Mayares in 1952 in Acapulco, Mexico, Lyn May’s early life was shaped by financial struggles. To help her family, she started selling trinkets as a child. As she grew older, she worked as a waitress, where she met her first love, an American sailor who was much older than her. The couple moved to Mexico City, where they had two daughters before Lyn filed for divorce due to allegations of abuse.

The Dance That Led to Fame

After her divorce, Lyn May moved to Acapulco and began working as a dancer. Her performances in a miniskirt soon caught the attention of local audiences. But it wasn’t until she appeared on the popular Mexican TV show Siempre en Domingo that her fame truly exploded.

Lyn’s talent didn’t go unnoticed by Enrique Lombardini, the owner of Teatro Esperanza Iris, who invited her to perform in his burlesque shows. Initially hesitant, Lyn eventually embraced the sultry style, and when she began stripping on stage, the audience’s excitement reached new heights. Lombardini famously dubbed her “The Goddess of Love,” and she became a staple in the Ficheras film genre, known for its lighthearted and sometimes controversial portrayal of working-class Mexican life.

A Rollercoaster Love Life

Lyn May’s personal life was just as dramatic as her career. After a whirlwind romance with billionaire Antonio Chi Su, whom she married in 1989, Lyn stood by him as he battled prostate cancer. Unfortunately, Antonio passed away in 2008, leaving Lyn devastated. In an interview, she shocked the world by admitting she had dug up his body and slept beside his remains to cope with the grief.

“I loved him so much, I couldn’t let him go,” Lyn May revealed.

Despite the intense backlash, Lyn’s openness about her emotional struggles only added to her complex public persona.

A Bold Affair with a Mexican President?

Lyn May has also been linked to some of Mexico's most powerful figures. She once claimed to have had an affair with a former Mexican president, though she has never revealed his identity. Speculation points to José López Portillo, who was married to actress Sasha Montenegro.

A Shocking Pregnancy Announcement at 68

In 2021, Lyn May made headlines again when she announced, at the age of 68, that she was pregnant. Her fiancé, 29-year-old Markos D1, was said to be the father. However, rumors soon emerged suggesting the pregnancy might have been a publicity stunt for her farewell tour. Markos later confirmed that their relationship was not as serious as Lyn had portrayed.

Despite the controversy, Lyn’s bold claim sparked worldwide attention and debates about fertility and age.

The Truth Behind Her Changed Appearance

Lyn May’s appearance has always been part of her allure, but her pursuit of beauty came at a high cost. After seeking cosmetic enhancements, she was tragically deceived by a con artist who injected her face with harmful substances instead of collagen. The lumps on her face remain a painful reminder of the disastrous procedure.

Despite the setback, Lyn continued her career and stayed in the public eye, always open about her struggles with beauty and fame.

The Resilient Legend

Lyn May’s life is a testament to resilience and determination. From her rise to fame in the Mexican film industry to overcoming personal loss and public scrutiny, her story is one of transformation, heartbreak, and triumph. Even as her career waned, she maintained her celebrity status through TV appearances, music videos, and social media.

Lyn May's journey proves that beauty, fame, and love come with both joy and hardship—but through it all, she remains an unforgettable figure in Mexican entertainment.

Conclusion

Lyn May’s story is one of dramatic twists, resilience, and fascinating encounters with fame. From her tragic beauty blunders to her controversial love life and shocking claims, she remains a captivating figure in Mexican pop culture. Whether she’s inspiring through her triumphs or captivating with her audacity, Lyn May will always be a legendary showgirl in the hearts of her fans.