Israeli Actor Rami Heuberger, of ‘Schindler’s List,’ Dies at 61

Rami Heuberger, one of Israel’s most beloved and versatile actors, passed away on August 25 at the age of 61 after a long battle with cancer. Known for his depth, wit, and artistry, Heuberger left a lasting imprint on Israeli culture through his powerful presence on stage, screen, and television.

International audiences recognized him for his role in Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List, but for Israelis, Heuberger’s body of work spanned generations and genres from Shakespearean tragedy to biting satire, from intense psychological dramas to absurdist comedies.

After serving in the IDF, Heuberger studied at the Nissan Nativ Acting Studio and went on to become a fixture at the Cameri Theater, later performing and directing at Beit Lessin, Habima, and theaters across the country. His roles in productions such as Macbeth, Hamlet, Waiting for Godot, and Scenes from a Marriage showcased both his range and emotional honesty.

He was equally celebrated on television. He gained cult status for his performances on the sketch comedy show Ha-Hamishia Ha Kamerit, alongside Keren Mor, Menashe Noy, Dov Navon, and Shai Avivi. Later, he took on memorable dramatic roles in series like BeTipul (In Treatment), Stockholm, Manayek, and most recently, Checkout.

Heuberger was also a mainstay of Israeli cinema. Fans especially cherished his performance in Operation Grandma, a cult black comedy where he played a rigid army officer planning a funeral with military precision. His final film role was portraying Moshe Dayan in Guy Nattiv’s Golda, a fitting end to a career defined by gravitas and charisma.

He also starred in acclaimed films such as August Snow, Gift from Above, Dear Mr. Waldman, and The House on Fin Street.

Culture and Sport Minister Miki Zohar paid tribute, saying, “Rami was a major actor who moved, made us laugh, and entered our hearts. He played characters that became part of Israeli life, and he will be greatly missed by the world of culture and by all of us. May his memory be blessed.”

Heuberger’s legacy is one of artistic excellence and national affection a reminder of how deeply culture shapes the soul of a people.

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