Mohammad Bakri, fearless Palestinian-Israeli artist, dies at 72 after decades of defiance
Renowned Palestinian-Israeli actor and director Mohammad Bakri has died at the age of 72. His son, Saleh, shared the news on Instagram, confirming the loss of a figure known for his bold work in film and theatre. Bakri had been battling long-term heart issues before his passing on Wednesday.
Bakri’s career began in the 1980s, where he performed in both Arabic and Hebrew across Palestinian and Israeli stages. His first major film role came in 1984 with Hanna K., directed by Costa-Gavras. Over the decades, he appeared in dozens of productions, including Beyond the Walls, which earned an Academy Award nomination.
In 2002, Bakri directed Jenin, Jenin, a documentary that sparked controversy and was banned by the Israeli Film Board. The ban was later upheld by Israel’s Supreme Court in 2022. His political stance led to widespread boycotts and isolation within Israeli society. Beyond acting, Bakri also created solo performances, such as Bakri’s Monologue, an adaptation of Emile Habib’s novel The Secret Life of Saeed: The Pessoptimist. His final directorial project was the 2025 documentary In the Shade of the Orange Tree (originally titled All That’s Left of You). His funeral took place in al-Bi'neh, the northern Israeli town where he was born.
Bakri leaves behind a complex legacy, marked by acclaimed performances and contentious films. His work often challenged political narratives, earning both admiration and backlash. The funeral in his hometown brought an end to a career that spanned theatre, cinema, and activism.
