Actor Chaim (Haym) Topol, two-time Golden Globe award winner, known for his portrayal of Tevye in the 1971 film “Fiddler on the Roof,” has passed away. Israeli President Isaac Herzog confirmed Topol’s passing on March 8th, 2023. President Herzog described Topol as “one of the most outstanding Israeli stage artists.” Topol had a distinguished career, performing on stages in Israel and overseas, all while appearing in numerous films. He was also a talented illustrator and received the Israel Prize for lifetime achievement in 2015.
Topol first played the role of Tevye on stage in Israel and London in the late 1960s. Despite being in his mid-30s and playing a character about 20 years older, Topol put on a critically acclaimed performance. He won a Golden Globe award for Best Actor in a Motion Picture in 1972. Topol was also nominated for an Oscar for his role in the film, one of eight nominations the movie received.
Topol’s renditions of “If I Were A Rich Man” and “Tradition” are two of the most iconic songs in movie history. He continued to play the role of Tevye on and off through 2009. Topol received a Tony Award nomination for his performance in a Broadway revival of the show in 1991.
More Than Just a Fiddler on the Roof
In addition to “Fiddler on the Roof,” Topol had several other noteworthy performances throughout his career. He won the Golden Globe for Best Newcomer in 1965 for his work in “Sallah Shabati,” an Israeli comedy. He was also named Best Actor by the San Sebastian IFF for his role in the 1972 comedy-drama “Follow Me!.” Topol played Dr. Hans Zarkov in the 1980 cult classic superhero film “Flash Gordon.” He also appeared in the 1981 James Bond movie “For Your Eyes Only,” as a smuggler who helps 007.
Topol’s talent extended beyond acting and he illustrated more than 20 books in Hebrew and English. He also sketched Israeli presidents for a stamp series. Topol was married to Galia Finkelstein, and they had three children, Anat, Ady, and Omer. He will be greatly missed by loved ones and fans alike.
