Mitică Popescu, Romanian actor, Died at 86

Mitica Popescu: A Revered Figure in Romanian Theater

Mitica Popescu (Romanian pronunciation: [miˈtikə poˈpesku]; December 2, 1936 – January 3, 2023) was a cherished Romanian actor celebrated for his outstanding contributions to the realm of theater and film.

Early Life and Trials

Born on December 2, 1936, in Bucharest, Mitica Popescu embarked on his artistic journey in the mid-1950s when he began his studies at the Institute of Theatrical and Cinematographic Art. However, his path was abruptly altered. In 1958, the Securitate, Romania's secret police, arrested him on charges of planning to flee the country. This event led to a grim period of imprisonment, enduring three years of harsh sentences in various facilities.

His incarceration began at Malmaison Prison in Bucharest before enduring the challenging conditions of the labor camps at Periprava and Salcia on the banks of the Danube. Despite these tribulations, Popescu's resilience prevailed.

Theater Odyssey

Upon his release, Popescu found solace through the support of fellow actors Radu Beligan and Mircea Șeptilici, who aided him in securing a position at the esteemed Teatrul de Comedie in Bucharest. In 1963, he resumed his pursuit of acting, rekindling his studies.

Graduating in 1967, Popescu's talents found a home at the Teatrul Tineretului in Piatra Neamț, where he graced the stage until 1973. In a significant move that year, he joined the prestigious Teatrul Mic in Bucharest. For nearly four decades, he captivated audiences with his performances at Teatrul Mic, cementing his status as a distinguished figure in Romanian theater.

Awards and Commendations

In recognition of his illustrious career, Mitica Popescu received numerous well-deserved awards and accolades. In 2002, he was honored with the National Order of Faithful Service, bearing the title of a knight. The UNITER celebrated his lifetime achievements with a prestigious career award in 2009. The pinnacle of his career arrived in 2013 when he was bestowed with the esteemed Gopo Award for Lifetime Achievement.

Personal Journey and Farewell

In 1977, Mitica Popescu's life took a beautiful turn as he married the accomplished actress Leopoldina Bălănuță. However, his world was touched by sorrow when his beloved wife passed away in 1998.

On January 3, 2023, tragedy struck as Mitica Popescu passed away at the Elias Hospital in Bucharest, where he was undergoing medical treatment. At the time of his passing, he was 86 years old. In a fitting tribute, Popescu was laid to rest with full military honors in Bucharest's Bellu Cemetery, beside his cherished wife Leopoldina Bălănuță. His legacy as a luminary of the Romanian stage will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.