Netta Barzilai Mourns Death of Childhood Friend Gal Brook Gurfong
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
Israeli singer Netta Barzilai is mourning the death of her childhood friend, dancer and swimmer Gal Brook Gurfong, who died at age 32 after a battle with cancer. The two reconnected for an artistic project, during which Barzilai learned of his illness. Gurfong, who had a rare salivary gland cancer, continued to create art and perform even after the cancer returned and spread. He had previously undergone extensive treatment abroad and had spoken about the importance of early detection.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Singer Netta Barzilai announced the death of her friend, dancer and swimmer Gal Brook Gurfong, at age 32.
- Gurfong died after a battle with a rare salivary gland cancer that had spread.
- Barzilai and Gurfong shared a childhood friendship and recently collaborated on an artistic project.
- Despite his illness, Gurfong continued to create and perform art, including a solo show and theater performances.
- Gurfong had previously undergone cancer treatment abroad and advocated for early medical detection.
Israeli singer Netta Barzilai posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram mourning the death of Gal Brook Gurfong, a dancer and swimmer who passed away after a battle with cancer. Barzilai shared memories of their shared childhood at HaDarim High School and their recent artistic collaboration on a music video.
Gurfong, who was 32 at the time of his death, was a competitive swimmer in high school and later pursued a professional dance career, joining respected dance troupes. Barzilai reached out to him for an artistic project requiring underwater filming. During a video call, she learned he was battling a rare salivary gland cancer, Carcinoma Cystic-Adenoid, which had spread to his lymph nodes and nerves.
Despite his diagnosis, Gurfong participated in the underwater filming, showcasing his artistic talent. Barzilai visited him in Hod Hasharon, where they spoke for four hours about his health and their collaboration. She recognized the advanced stage of his cancer but felt he was the ideal person for the project.
Gurfong's health deteriorated in recent weeks. He had previously undergone radiation and chemotherapy abroad for his cancer, returning to perform a solo show titled "Healing" at the Israel Festival. He was diagnosed with a recurrence and spread of cancer to his liver in June 2025, yet still performed three shows at the Jerusalem Theater in July 2025. Gurfong consistently emphasized the importance of medical awareness, early detection, and listening to one's body.
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