Moroccan Actor Mustapha Zaari Dies at 79
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Loading... - Gie Foster
- 05 Dec 2024
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Renowned Moroccan actor Mustapha Zaari passed away on Tuesday, December 3, at the age of 79, after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer. The veteran performer had been receiving treatment at the Military Hospital in Rabat and had recently returned home following a stabilization of his condition. His death marks a significant loss for the Moroccan arts community, where he leaves behind a rich legacy in cinema, television, and theater.
Actor Mohamed Choubi confirmed the news on social media, expressing his condolences: “God is great. May God have mercy on artist Mustapha Zaari.”
Born on November 5, 1945, in the Derb Sultan neighborhood of Casablanca, Zaari faced early hardships, losing his father at the tender age of three. Raised by his mother in challenging circumstances, she inadvertently set him on his artistic path by enrolling him in a theater club to help channel his youthful energy. This early exposure to the arts would lay the foundation for a remarkable career.
Zaari began his artistic journey in the 1960s, joining the Brothers Troupe led by Abdeladim Chennaoui. Despite lacking formal academic training in the arts, he honed his craft under the mentorship of prominent figures such as Tayeb Saddiki and Ahmed Tayeb Lalj. His entry into professional acting was facilitated by his work as a youth camp counselor and trainer, where he developed his skills and passion for performance.
Zaari's breakthrough came in the 1980s when he formed a successful comedy duo with Mustapha Dassoukine. His television debut occurred in the 1967 play “Nouakssia,” which marked the beginning of a prolific career. Over the years, he appeared in numerous theatrical productions, including “Bent El Haraz” and “Daba Tji Daba.”
His television repertoire included notable works such as “Setta men Settin” and “Saadi B Bnati,” while his film credits spanned both Moroccan and international productions, including “Childhood Stolen” and “The Message.” Zaari's versatility allowed him to tackle a wide range of roles, endearing him to audiences across generations.
In April, Zaari publicly disclosed his cancer diagnosis and sought assistance from the Ministry of Culture to facilitate access to specialized medical care. His final television appearance was in the recent series “Rihlat Al Omr,” directed by Lamisse Khairat, which aired on Al Aoula channel. The series featured a talented ensemble cast, including Fadila Benmoussa, Tarik Boukhari, Raouia, Malika El Omari, Hassan Foulane, and Ahmed Al Naji.
Beyond his on-screen performances, Zaari contributed to the arts behind the scenes, working in film production and artistic coordination. His comprehensive understanding of the entertainment industry enriched his contributions and solidified his status as a cultural icon in Morocco.
Mustapha Zaari's passing leaves a profound void in the Moroccan cultural landscape. His dedication to the arts and his ability to connect with audiences through diverse roles have left an indelible mark on Moroccan cinema, television, and theater. As the country mourns the loss of this beloved artist, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of performers and creators.
