Lyn May, the iconic Mexican showgirl known as “The Goddess of Love,” has lived a life that many could only imagine—one filled with fame, fortune, and controversy. However, beneath her dazzling persona lies a tragic story of personal struggles, cosmetic mishaps, and public scrutiny that have shaped her journey in ways most people don’t know.
Known for her performances and roles in nearly 100 films, Lyn May was one of Mexico’s biggest stars during her time in the entertainment industry. Yet, a simple Botox appointment in the early 1990s led to a devastating change that would forever alter her appearance and her life.
The Birth of a Star
Lyn May was born as Lilia Guadalupe Mendiola Mayares in 1952 in Acapulco, Mexico. From a young age, she learned the harsh realities of life, working to support her family by selling souvenirs to tourists. As she grew older, she worked as a waitress, which eventually led her to meet her first great love, a 30-year-older American sailor. They married, and Lyn moved to Mexico City, where they had two daughters. However, their marriage ended after five years, due to allegations of abuse and exploitation.
After the divorce, Lyn returned to Acapulco and began dancing. Despite her lack of formal training, Lyn’s natural talent and stunning looks caught the attention of many, and she soon found herself on the popular Mexican television show Siempre en Domingo, a show that helped catapult her to fame. Her rise to stardom continued as she performed in the burlesque shows at Teatro Esperanza Iris, eventually earning the title “Lyn May: The Goddess of Love.” This reputation landed her roles in the popular Ficheras films of the 1970s and 1980s, films known for their provocative and often humorous portrayal of working-class Mexicans.
Lyn May. Credit / Getty Images
A Life Full of Tragedy and Loss
In the late 1990s, Lyn May made a return to television and popular culture, reminding everyone of her unique charisma and talent. After her marriage to American sailor ended, she married businessman Antonio Chi Su in 1989. The couple opened a Chinese restaurant in Mexico City, but their happiness was short-lived when Chi Su was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He passed away in 2008, leaving Lyn devastated. Her grief led her to take extreme measures, such as exhuming his body and sleeping beside it, a deeply personal choice that shocked many.
Lyn later confirmed the rumors in an emotional interview, revealing how much she struggled to let go of the love of her life. “I loved him… Yes, I dug him up and slept beside him,” she confessed, adding that her mother fought with her daily to let him rest.
The Mystery of Her Face: A Tragic Cosmetic Mishap
Throughout her career, Lyn May has always been known for her beauty and striking appearance. She sought to enhance her facial features through cosmetic procedures, including Botox, but in the early 1990s, things went horribly wrong. According to reports, Lyn was tricked by a con artist posing as a cosmetic specialist. Instead of the collagen injections she had been promised, Lyn was injected with cooking oil, baby oil, or water—leading to severe, unsightly lumps on her face.
The damage was so severe that Lyn eventually turned to plastic surgery in an attempt to fix the botched treatment. While a small portion of the oil was removed, the damage remained, leaving permanent marks on her face as a reminder of her attempt to attain a different version of beauty. The situation has been a painful part of her life, but despite the challenges, Lyn has continued to remain in the public eye, showing strength and resilience.
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The Pregnancy Hoax: Another Public Stunt?
In August 2021, Lyn made headlines once again when she announced that at the age of 68, she was pregnant with her 29-year-old fiancé, Markos D1. This bombshell revelation shocked the world, and many questioned the truth behind her announcement. A few weeks after posting about her pregnancy, Lyn deleted most of her posts, leading to speculation about the authenticity of her claims.
It was later revealed that the relationship with Markos D1 was not as serious as Lyn had suggested, and he admitted that the pregnancy news was likely a publicity stunt. Markos, a musician, revealed that their encounter had been a one-night stand and that Lyn had fabricated the pregnancy story to promote her upcoming farewell tour. The story left many questioning the boundaries between reality and entertainment in Lyn’s life.
Lyn May: A Life of Resilience and Strength
Despite the controversies and tragedies that have surrounded her life, Lyn May continues to stand strong. Her journey is one of personal struggle, but also one of remarkable resilience. She has always remained a figure of intrigue, using her personal challenges as a platform to inspire others. Lyn has gained recognition for her courage, especially in the face of online mockery and harsh public scrutiny.
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Her story, though filled with hardship, is ultimately about embracing who you are, even when the world is unkind. Lyn May’s determination to keep moving forward, despite everything, has earned her a loyal following and respect from many who admire her strength.
A Lasting Legacy
As of 2024, Lyn May’s story is one of transformation and empowerment. Despite the tragic mishaps in her life, including the botched cosmetic procedure and the hoax surrounding her pregnancy, she remains a resilient figure who continues to influence those who look up to her. Lyn has shown that beauty comes from within, and that no matter the obstacles you face, there’s always room to rise again.
Her life is not just about fame and beauty, but also about facing challenges head-on and learning from them. Lyn May’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that we all have the power to overcome life’s difficulties, no matter how tough they seem.
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Please share this story with friends and family to celebrate Lyn May’s resilience and strength in the face of adversity.