Karlovy Vary Film Festival President Jiří Bartoška Dies at 78

Jiří Bartoška, a celebrated Czech actor and longtime president of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival, died at the age of 78 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Under his leadership since 1994, the festival transformed from a state-run event into a major international film festival, attracting global stars such as Michael Douglas, Scarlett Johansson, and Robert De Niro. Bartoška's influence extended beyond administration; he was a respected actor with over 70 screen credits and even starred in films featured at the festival. The spa town of Karlovy Vary has expressed deep mourning, flying black flags and planning public memorials to honor his legacy. Despite serious health challenges, including lymph node cancer and emergency surgery, Bartoška remained active in the festival and Czech cultural life until the end. His death marks the end of an era for Czech cinema and the Karlovy Vary Film Festival.