Halina Kowalska-Nowak, a celebrated Polish actress known for her roles in iconic comedies of the Polish People’s Republic era, has died in Konstancin-Jeziorna, Poland, on March 19, 2026, at the age of 84. Her passing marks a significant loss for Polish cinema and theatre.
Kowalska-Nowak gained prominence through her performances in films such as “Nie lubię poniedziałku” (I Don’t Like Mondays, 1971) and “Nie ma róży bez ognia” (There’s No Rose Without a Thorn, 1974), becoming a beloved figure for her comedic timing and stage presence. She also achieved widespread recognition for her role in the television series “Alternatywy 4” (Alternatives 4, 1983), a satirical portrayal of life in a Warsaw apartment building.
Born on July 27, 1941, in Brzeziny, Kowalska-Nowak graduated from the State Higher School of Film, Television and Theatre in Łódź in 1966. Prior to her studies, she honed her skills in amateur theatre while facing initial setbacks in gaining admission to acting school. Early in her career, she performed at the Wojciech Bogusławski Theatre in Kalisz, receiving a SPATiF award in 1967 for her performance in “Romeo and Juliet.” She later joined the Komedia Theatre in Warsaw, where she took on leading roles in productions like “Jadzia wdowa” (Jadzia the Widow).
In recent months, Kowalska-Nowak resided at the House of Veterans of the Polish Stage in Skolimów, where her health deteriorated significantly. Reports indicate she experienced increasing memory loss and a decline in her ability to connect with those around her, according to Super Express.
The Foundation of Polish Stage Veterans released a statement acknowledging her passing, stating, “Cześć Jej pamięci” (Honor Her Memory). The statement underscores the profound impact Kowalska-Nowak had on Polish culture through her extensive body of work.
While details surrounding her final days remain limited, her contributions to Polish film and theatre will continue to be celebrated by audiences for generations to come.
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