On May 8, 2025, at the age of 78, Jiří Bartoška passed away – an exceptional actor, a respected cultural figure, and for three decades the charismatic president of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. With his passing, Czech culture loses not only a significant artist but also a man who wholeheartedly dedicated himself to the development of Czech cinema and public life.
Bartoška was beloved by audiences and colleagues alike. He was known not only for his acting talent but also for his charm, dignity, and humane approach. On stage and on screen, he excelled with natural authority and an inner strength that he brought to every role.
Born on March 24, 1947, in Děčín, he graduated from the Janáček Academy of Performing Arts in Brno. His theatre career led him through Divadlo na provázku, the Činoherní studio in Ústí nad Labem, the Theatre on the Balustrade, and finally the founding of Divadlo Bez zábradlí. 
His filmography is extensive. Among his most notable films are:
🎬 Sekal Has to Die / Je treba zabit Sekala (1998)
🎬 All My Loved Ones/Vsichni moji blizci – awarded the Czech Lion for Best Supporting Actor
🎬 Theory of Tiger / Teorie tygra (2016)
🎬 An Angel of The Lord / Andel pane (2005) and An Angel of the Lord 2 / Andel Pane 2 (2016) – unforgettable as God
🎬 You Kiss Like a God / Libas jako buh (2009) and You Kiss Like a Devil / Libas jako dabel (2012)
🎬 Adored / Zboznovany (2021), Volani rodu, The Ambulance / Sanitka, Na velike rece, Quiet Happiness / Ticha radost
Beyond the stage and screen, Bartoška made a lasting impact as the long-time president of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. Since 1994, together with Eva Zaoralová, he transformed the festival into a globally respected cultural event. He was admired not only for his professional achievements but also for his civic engagement and courage to speak out when needed. 
His passing is a tremendous loss, but his voice, charisma, and stories will remain with us.
🕯️ Thank you, Mr. Bartoška.