The international film community is mourning the loss of Jiří Bartoška,the actor and president of the Karlovy Vary International film Festival,who died Thursday at the age of 78. His impact resonated far beyond the Czech Republic, with Hollywood recognizing his pivotal role in shaping one of Europe’s most respected film events.

A Festival Transformed

Publications such as variety and The Hollywood Reporter have highlighted Mr. Bartoška’s instrumental role in revitalizing the Karlovy Vary Film Festival. He served as its president as 1994,a period of meaningful conversion for the event.

Bartoška has played a key role in the rescue of the Karlovy Vary Film Festival. He has been his president as 1994. Together with the long -time artistic director Eva Zaoral, they transformed the second oldest film festival in Europe into a modern, internationally recognized show.
Variety

Under his leadership, alongside artistic director Eva Zaoral, the festival evolved into a globally recognized showcase for cinema.

Friendship and Revival

The Hollywood Reporter emphasized Mr. Bartoška’s close relationship with former Czech President Václav Havel,noting its importance to the festival’s survival. The article recalls an instance in the 1990s:

havel refused to arrive at the festival (Golden Golem) in Prague, but he showed up on the opening evening in Karlovy Vary.
The Hollywood Reporter

This act of support was crucial.The Hollywood Reporter adds that two years later, the Golden Golem competition in Prague disappeared, and the Karlovy Vary festival entered a new, accomplished era.

Russell Crowe’s Tribute

Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe, a guest at the Karlovy Vary festival last year, shared his condolences on X (formerly Twitter):

I just heard the sad news that the legend Jiří Bartoška passed away today. President of the Karlovy Vary Film Festival, I had the great honor to receive the award for Outstanding Contribution to World Cinema from his own hands. pic.twitter.com/60ILrOGDaK

— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) May 8, 2025

Mr. Crowe expressed gratitude for receiving the award for Outstanding Contribution to World Cinema from Mr. Bartoška.

Continuing the Legacy

Kryštof Mucha, the executive director of the Karlovy Vary Festival, told The Hollywood Reporter that Mr.Bartoška’s presence would be irreplaceable. he affirmed the commitment to continue the festival’s vision with artistic director Karel Och.

We will miss it. He was an incredibly exceptional person who treated everyone the same way – he spoke to the country’s president and the driver at the festival anyway – and he was a great friend.
Kryštof Mucha, Executive director, Karlovy Vary Festival

Mr. Mucha emphasized Mr. Bartoška’s exceptional character and his ability to connect with peopel from all walks of life.