Overview

• Jiří Bartoška died on May 8, 2025, at the age of 78 in Prague, following a prolonged fight with lung cancer.
• As president of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival since 1994, Bartoška played a pivotal role in revitalizing Europe’s second-oldest film festival, securing its A-category status and international reputation.
• Bartoška’s acting career spanned nearly 70 films, earning him acclaim with awards like Best Supporting Actor for 'All My Loved Ones' and a nomination for 'Sekal Has to Die.'
• His leadership at KVIFF, alongside Eva Zaoralová and with support from Václav Havel, transformed the festival into a globally respected cultural event.
• He is survived by his wife Andrea, whom he married in 1976, and their two children, Katerina and Janek.