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Chaim Topol Death: Fiddler On The Roof And James Bond Actor Dies Aged 87
Israeli actor, singer, and illustrator Chaim Topol, known for his role in the 1972 British comedy-drama film, ‘Follow Me!’ passed away at the age of 87. Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced the news to the world on March 8, 2023.
Topol was well-known for his role as Tevye the Milkman in the drama and film version of Fiddler on the Roof. He was born on September 9, 1935, in Tel Aviv, Mandatory Palestine(now Israel). The actor was prominently known just by his last name alone and was reported dead at home. His son later confirmed the death and stated that the actor was diagnosed with dementia in 2022.
Chaim Topol Cause Of Death
From the news released by the local media, it is clear that the 87-year-old actor died while surrounded by his family. Apart from dementia, the actor even had Alzheimer’s for the past couple of years.
While releasing the news of his demise, Israeli president Isaac Herzog remarked Topol was one of the most outstanding Israeli stage artists who represented Israeli culture. Besides Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Topol was a multifaceted artist with great charisma and energy. They added that the actor’s death was a shock for all, and he’ll be forever in their hearts.
Chaim Topol Early Life And Career
Topol started his acting career in the early 60s and made his debut with Batzal Yarok, a satirical theatre company. In 1960, he even co-founded a theatre named Haifa Municipal Theatre, where he even assisted a director and even acted in plays by Shakespeare and the most prominent writers of the time.
He made his film debut in 1961 through the Israeli Drama film I like Mike, and two years later, he returned with the 1963 hit El Dorado. His most prominent role, Tevye, was portrayed by him for about five decades, and as per estimates, he performed the role over 3500 times.
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Chaim Topol Awards And Achievements
The actor won his first Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer-Male for his role in the 1964 film Sallah Shabati. The film even received the Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film. With this film, he gained massive popularity among international fans.
As mentioned above, Topol has appeared as Tevye on numerous stages. His performance as Tevye caught the eyes of Director Norman Jewison, who chose him to be his Tevye in the film adaptation of the drama.
Apart from two Golden Globes, the actor is a recipient of numerous awards, including an Academy Award and a Tony Award. He was one of the most celebrated actors of his time and was famous for all the roles he performed in his acting career.
In 2015, the Israeli Government awarded Topol a lifetime achievement award for his contributions to film and culture. This recognition is considered one of the most prestigious honors given to only those who deserve it.
After the death of the actor was confirmed, fans all over the world, including prominent personalities, paid tribute to his soul and even conveyed their heartfelt condolences to the family who is going through a hard time.
About Jordan River Village
Besides his acting career, Topol was very active in charity work. He co-founded and served as the president of the Jordan River Village, a year-round free camp arranged for kids of the country suffering from chronic illnesses. Furthermore, in 1967, he founded an organization, ‘Variety Israel’ to support kids and their families suffering from disabilities and difficulties.
Topol married Galia Finkelstein in 1956, and the couple shares three children. The family resides in Tel Aviv, and on March 08, 2023, the actor’s family announced that he was nearing his death and living his final hours. The next day, on March 08, 2023, his soul departed the body after living a glorious 87 years, not only for himself but rather to help others who were in trouble and need.
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