Jiří Bartoška: A Legacy in Czech Cinema and Theatre
Jiří Bartoška, the celebrated Czech actor and longtime president of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, passed away on May 8, 2025, at the age of 78. His death marks a significant loss for Czech culture, leaving behind a rich legacy in film, television, and theatre.
Early Life and Career
Born on March 24, 1947, in Děčín, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic), Bartoška began his acting journey after graduating from the Janáček Academy of Music and Performing Arts in Brno.1 He honed his skills at several prominent theatres, including Divadlo Husa na provázku in Brno, Činoherní studio Ústí nad Labem, and the Theatre on the Balustrade in Prague.1 He was also a founding member of Divadlo Bez zábradlí.
Notable Roles in Film and Television
Bartoška’s career spanned decades, with memorable performances in both film and television. He is recognized for his roles in films such as Sekal Has to Die (1998), All My Loved Ones (1999) – for which he won the Czech Lion for Best Supporting Actor2 – and Tiger Theory (2016).1 Television audiences remember him from series like Sanitka (1984) and Neviditelní (2014).1
The Role of God and ‘Angel of the Lord’
Perhaps one of his most iconic roles was portraying God in the first two installments of the popular Czech film series, Angel of the Lord (2005) and Angel of the Lord 2 (2016).2 Director Jiří Strach has confirmed plans for a third film, Angel of the Lord 3 Kings, and intends to honor Bartoška’s legacy by not recasting the role.2 Strach emphasized the irreplaceable nature of Bartoška’s performance and his deep connection to the character.2 The film is expected to be released between 2028 and 2029.2
President of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival
For three decades, beginning in 1994, Bartoška served as the president of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, transforming it into a globally respected cultural event.2 He collaborated closely with film critic Eva Zaoralová in this role.1 The 59th KVIFF will pay tribute to Bartoška with a screening of We’ve Got to Frame It! (a conversation with Jiří Bartoška in July 2021), directed by Milan Kuchynka and Jakub Jurásek, as well as screenings of Tiger Theory and an exhibition dedicated to his presidency.3
Jiří Bartoška’s contributions to Czech cinema and culture will be deeply missed. His talent, charm, and dedication have left an indelible mark on the nation’s artistic landscape.