Lebna Finkelshtein to Receive Lifetime Achievement Ophir Award

The Israeli Film and Television Academy announced Sunday that veteran actress Lebna Finkelshtein will be honored with the 2026 Ophir Award for Lifetime Achievement. The award ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, at Cinema City Glilot, and will be hosted by actors Shani Cohen and Adam Gabay.

Finkelshtein, 78, expressed her deep emotion upon hearing the news, stating, "When they informed me of the win, I suddenly felt a chill all over my body, goosebumps from excitement." She emphasized the vital role of culture and art in uplifting spirits, especially during challenging times, and reflected on her career portraying a diverse range of Israeli women. "We are all mixed and connected here, and it is important that we give culture the respect it deserves, because without culture, what are all the things really worth?" she added.

A graduate of the Beit Zvi school of performing arts in 1967 and a co-founder of the IDF Theater, Finkelshtein began her film career with a leading role in 1969's 'Margo Sheli' by Menahem Golan. Over more than five decades, she has appeared in numerous films, including 'I Love You Rosa,' 'Salomonico,' 'Tsanani Family,' and 'Sus'etz.' She also collaborated with director Shmi Zarhin on films like 'Aviva My Love,' 'The World is Funny,' 'The Good Words,' and 'Hamda,' as well as featuring in 'Mita Tova,' 'Mazal Gatola,' and 'HaShituka.'

In theater, Finkelshtein has performed on the stages of Israel's major institutions, including Habima, Cameri, Beit Lessin, and Gesher. Her previous accolades include an Ophir Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in 'A Tale of Love,' and acting awards from the Haifa International Film Festival and the Jerusalem Film Festival.