Algerian musicians died at 76
Here are 1 famous musicians from Algeria died at 76:
Larbi Zekkal
Larbi Zekkal (May 19, 1934 Algiers-September 17, 2010 Algiers) otherwise known as Larbi Zekal was an Algerian actor and comedian.
He was known for his roles in Algerian cinema and theatre. In the 1960s, he co-founded the National Theatre of Algeria and became its first director. Zekkal appeared in several films such as "Operation Leopard" and "The Battle of Algiers". He also had a successful career in television, starring in popular sitcoms and dramas. In addition to his work in entertainment, Zekkal was also involved in political activism and was a member of the Socialist Forces Front party. He continued to act and perform until his death in 2010, leaving behind a legacy as one of Algeria's most beloved actors.
In 2004, Zekkal was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Algiers International Film Festival. He was also honored with the "Medal of Merit" by the Algerian government for his contributions to Algerian culture and the arts. Zekkal was a vocal advocate for the use of Algerian Arabic in literature, theatre, and film. He believed that the language was an important part of Algerian identity and should be preserved and celebrated. Zekkal was married with three children and his son, Hocine Zekal, is also an actor in Algerian cinema. Despite struggling with health issues in his later years, Zekkal remained active in his career and his commitment to social and cultural causes until his passing.
Zekkal was born in the Bab El Oued neighborhood of Algiers, which at the time was a bustling hub of arts and culture. He showed a passion for acting from a young age and was encouraged by his family to pursue his dreams. After studying at the Charles de Foucauld School, Zekkal went on to study drama in Paris in the 1950s.
Upon returning to Algeria, Zekkal quickly made a name for himself in the theatre scene, starring in productions such as "Les Ailes Brisées" and "Le Cid". His talent and charisma caught the attention of Algerian filmmaker Gillo Pontecorvo, who cast him in his seminal film "The Battle of Algiers". The film, which depicted the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule, became an international sensation and earned Zekkal critical acclaim.
Zekkal went on to act in over 50 films, including "The Wind from the East" and "Goodbye, Morituri". He also starred in several television dramas and sit-coms, becoming a beloved figure in Algerian households.
Throughout his career, Zekkal remained committed to promoting Algerian culture and language, and was a frequent speaker at literary and cultural events. He also used his platform to advocate for social justice and equality.
Today, Zekkal is remembered as a pioneering figure in Algerian cinema and theatre, and a tireless advocate for the arts and culture of his country. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of actors and performers in Algeria and beyond.
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