Finnish actresses died in 1990

Here are 1 famous actresses from Finland died in 1990:

Emmi Jurkka

Emmi Jurkka (April 21, 1899 Helsinki-October 17, 1990 Helsinki) also known as Emmi Irene Tuomi or Emmi Tuomi was a Finnish actor. She had three children, Sakari Jurkka, Vappu Jurkka and Jussi Jurkka.

Despite having no formal acting training, Emmi Jurkka became one of the most prominent and respected actors in Finnish theater and film. Her career spanned over six decades, starting in the 1920s and ending in the mid-1980s. She appeared in numerous productions in Helsinki's Finnish National Theatre as well as in films, including the critically acclaimed "Kahdeksan Surmanluotia" (Eight Deadly Shots, 1972).

Emmi was married to the renowned Finnish actor and director, Kaarlo Jurkka, from 1923 until his death in 1955. Her son, Sakari Jurkka, also became a well-known Finnish actor.

In addition to acting, Emmi Jurkka was also an accomplished writer, publishing several books and essays throughout her life. She was also a passionate advocate for Finnish theater and was involved in founding the Finnish Actors' Union.

Emmi Jurkka's contributions to Finnish culture were widely recognized during her lifetime, and she received several awards for her work, including the esteemed Pro Finlandia medal in 1963.

Emmi Jurkka grew up in the Kallio neighborhood of Helsinki and attended the Helsinki Girls' Lyceum. She began her career as an actor in 1921 when she was discovered by the Finnish director and actor, Eino Jurkka, who offered her a role in his production of Henrik Ibsen's "Peer Gynt". Emmi and Eino would later marry and have three children together.

Throughout her career, Emmi Jurkka acted in a variety of roles, ranging from classical theater performances to film comedies. She was known for her ability to portray complex and nuanced characters that resonated with audiences. She was especially recognized for her performances in the plays of Finnish playwrights such as Aleksis Kivi, Minna Canth, and Hella Wuolijoki.

Despite being a busy and successful actor, Emmi Jurkka was also an active member of Finnish society. She was involved in several organizations dedicated to improving the lives of women and children, and campaigned for social and cultural causes. In 1958, she was awarded the title of Academician of the Finnish Academy of Arts and Letters, recognizing her contributions to Finnish culture.

Emmi Jurkka continued to perform and write throughout her life, remaining active even after her retirement from the Finnish National Theatre in 1961. She published her memoir, "Matkalla näyttämöllä" (Journey on the Stage), in 1971, which chronicled her life and career in Finnish theater. She passed away in Helsinki in 1990, leaving behind a legacy as one of Finland's most beloved and respected actors.

Emmi Jurkka was also a prominent figure in Finnish radio, hosting her own talk show titled "Emmi Jurkka pitää puheen" (Emmi Jurkka gives a speech) on Yleisradio. She used her platform to discuss a wide range of topics, from art and culture to social issues and politics, and was known for her thoughtful and insightful commentary. In addition to her work in the arts and media, Jurkka was a passionate traveler and visited many countries throughout her life. She documented her travels through photographs and essays, which were published in several magazines and newspapers. Emmi Jurkka's legacy continues to be celebrated in Finland today, with several awards and scholarships named in her honor, including the Emmi Jurkka Prize for distinguished acting.

Emmi Jurkka was also a pioneer in bringing modern American drama to Finnish audiences, having performed in plays by Tennessee Williams, Arthur Miller, and Eugene O'Neill. She was known for her willingness to take on challenging and controversial roles, such as the role of Martha in Edward Albee's "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?" which tackled the issues of alcoholism and marital strife. Despite facing criticism from conservative members of Finnish society, Jurkka was praised for her nuanced and powerful performance. Additionally, she was known for her work in promoting cultural exchange between Finland and other countries, and in 1957 she was awarded the Soviet Union's Order of Friendship for her efforts in fostering friendly relations between Finland and the Soviet Union. Emmi Jurkka's impact on Finnish culture and society continues to be felt today, and her name remains synonymous with excellence in the performing arts.

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