Actor Chaim Topol, known to most simply as Topol, passed away yesterday of complications of dementia. He was 87.
Although the role of Teyve in Fiddler on the Roof was originated by Zero Mostel, it was Topol who became synonymous with the character portraying him over 3,500 times over more than four decades on stages all over the world and on the silver screen in 1971 earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
When I watched the film nearly 40 years ago, I thought Topol was well into his 60s when in fact he was in his 30's. Makeup certainly helps, but the authority in his movements and his voice gave the impression of an elder in command of his kingdom even if that kingdom was scarcely a parcel of land from which his family would be soon evicted by the Czar.
For many years, Topol was the best-known Israeli in the world and he did much good for Israel's image and for promoting a greater understanding of Judaism. Teyve sung of tradition but Topol became a tradition unto himself. R.I.P.
No comments:
Post a Comment