A renowned Romanian actress celebrated for her iconic performances in film and theater, particularly in the Romanian New Wave cinema movement.
Stela Popescu, one of Romania's most beloved and iconic actresses, is widely regarded as the greatest comedy actress of all time in her homeland. With a career spanning over six decades, she left an indelible mark on the Romanian entertainment industry, captivating audiences with her remarkable talent, wit, and charm.
Born on December 21, 1935, in the village of Slobozia-Hodorogea, Orhei, Stela Popescu grew up in a family of teachers. Her early life was marked by the Soviet occupation of Bessarabia, and the subsequent deportation of her father to Siberia in 1940. She and her mother fled to Brașov in 1944, where she would later go on to pursue her passion for the arts.
After abandoning her studies at the Maxim Gorki Russian Language School, Popescu joined the Theater of the Ministry of the Interior in 1953. She was later admitted to the Institute of Theater and Cinematography in 1956, continuing to perform in theater while pursuing her degree. Upon graduating, she was assigned to the Theater in Brașov, where she gave an astonishing 400 performances a year.
Popescu's career was marked by her versatility and ability to adapt to different roles. She appeared at the Constantin Tănase Theater from 1963 to 1969 and later joined the Comedy Theater, where she continued to perform for 24 years. Her collaborations with the Romanian Radio Broadcasting Company spanned over five decades, and she was a regular fixture on the popular Boema show at the Boema Garden.
Popescu married journalist Mihai Maximilian in 1969, with whom she collaborated extensively. Her personal life was marked by her strong spirit and determination, which inspired countless Romanians throughout her career.
Stela Popescu's passing on November 23, 2017, marked the end of an era in Romanian entertainment. Her legacy, however, continues to inspire new generations of artists, comedians, and actors, cementing her place as a beloved cultural icon in Romanian history.
Born in 1918
A renowned Romanian actor and director, celebrated for his iconic performances on stage and screen, particularly in classical plays and literary adaptations.
83 Years Old
A renowned Romanian actor and artistic director, known for his powerful performances on stage and screen, as well as his leadership of the National Theatre in Bucharest.