Acclaimed Israeli Actor and Director Yossi Pollak Dies at 81

Yossi Pollak, a prominent Israeli actor and director, passed away Friday at the age of 81. Pollak was considered one of the most significant actors in Israeli theater, having graduated from the Beit Tzvi acting school.

Throughout his extensive career, Pollak performed in dozens of stage productions across major Israeli theaters, including Habima, Cameri, and Beit Lessin. Notable plays included "The Gypsies of Jaffa," "Othello," "Uncle Vanya," "A Midsummer Night's Dream," "The Taming of the Shrew," "The Merchant of Venice," "King Lear," and "All My Sons." His role in "I'm Not Rappaport" at Beit Lessin earned him the Israeli Theater Award for Best Leading Actor in 2003.

Beyond the stage, Pollak also appeared in numerous Israeli films and television series. His film credits include "Caesarea the Parachuting Dog," "Gamliel the Wise," "The House on Third Street," "The Thousand Wives of Naftali Siman Tov," and "Must Be Happy." He also acted in the drama series "Nebulot."

Pollak also had a notable directing career, helming productions such as "Othello" and "Romeo and Juliet" at the Haifa Theater, and "Of Mice and Men" at Beit Lessin Theater. He was also known for his outspoken political views and criticism of the Israeli establishment and government.

Pollak is survived by his second wife, Tami, and five children. His sons include director Shi Carmeli-Pollak and actor and choreographer Avshalom Pollak.