Acclaimed Israeli Actor and Director Yossi Pollak Dies at 81
Translated & summarized from Ice by baba
Acclaimed Israeli actor and director Yossi Pollak has died at 81 after a long career in theater, film, and television. Known for his stage performances and directorial work, Pollak retired at 69 and was also recognized for his public political views.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Renowned Israeli actor and director Yossi Pollak passed away at 81.
- He had a distinguished career in theater, film, and television.
- Pollak received the Theater Actor of the Year award.
- He retired from acting at age 69 while still in demand.
- He was also known for his public political stances.
Yossi Pollak, a prominent Israeli actor and director, has passed away at the age of 81. Born in Rehovot in 1945, Pollak had a distinguished career spanning theater, film, and television, performing in numerous productions at leading Israeli theaters. He was particularly recognized for his stage work, appearing in plays such as "The Gypsies of Jaffa," "Othello," "Uncle Vanya," "King Lear," and "The Taming of the Shrew." His performance in "I'm Not Rappaport" earned him the Theater Actor of the Year award.
Pollak began his acting journey after studying at the Beit Zvi acting school. His entry into professional theater was facilitated by playwright and director Nissim Aloni, who cast him in "Aunt Liza" in 1969. He later starred in "The Gypsies of Jaffa," sharing the stage with legendary actors like Hanna Rovina. Pollak also directed a new version of this play at the Khan Theatre. Throughout his career, he performed at major venues including Habima, Cameri, Haifa Theatre, Beit Lessin, and the Khan Theatre.
Beyond acting, Pollak also directed several productions, including "Endgame," "Orphans," "Othello," and "Of Mice and Men." His film credits include "Caesarea the Parachutist Dog," "The House on Shlosh Street," and "Must Be Happy." On television, he appeared in the miniseries "Nebulot" and lent his voice to characters in animated shows.
Pollak retired from acting at age 69, stating he felt he had fulfilled his desired roles and wished to avoid being phased out of the industry. His son, actor and dancer Avshalom Pollak, expressed pride in his father's decision to leave while still in demand. Pollak was also known for his public political stances, often identifying with the radical left and expressing opinions on the Israeli military, government, and establishment.
Condolences have poured in from Israeli cultural institutions. Habima Theatre described him as a senior figure who left a mark on Israeli culture, praising his stage presence, depth, and love for theater. Cameri Theatre also mourned him as one of the greatest actors, highlighting his extensive roles and directorial work. Yossi Pollak is survived by his wife, Tami, and five children, including director and screenwriter Shai Carmeli-Pollak and actor and dancer Avshalom Pollak.
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