Zdeněk Svěrák at 90: A Celebration of Czech Culture and Enduring Legacy
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, Czech writer, actor, and playwright Zdeněk Svěrák celebrated his 90th birthday with a special evening at the Divadlo Járy Cimrmana in Prague. The event, broadcast live by Český rozhlas Radiožurnál and shown in over 180 cinemas across the Czech Republic, was a testament to his profound impact on Czech culture.
A Night of Tributes and Reflections
The celebratory evening drew a distinguished crowd, including President Petr Pavel, who playfully quoted a line from Svěrák’s play Dobytí severního pólu. Marek Eben, a popular Czech television host, also offered a humorous tribute, noting Svěrák’s widespread appeal. Numerous colleagues from the world of Czech theatre and film were in attendance, including Daniela Kolářová, Petr Nárožný, Bolek Polívka, Karel Šíp, and Tomáš Klus.
Svěrák himself reflected on his life and career, acknowledging both the joys and disappointments he’s experienced. He expressed surprise at still being on stage at 90, and acknowledged the current state of the world, noting his sadness at the rise of conflict and “psychopaths” in positions of power.
From Radio Beginnings to Cinematic Success
The celebration highlighted Svěrák’s long and varied career, beginning in the 1960s with his work at Český rozhlas, where he co-created the improvisational “Nealkoholická vinárna U Pavouka.” This early work laid the foundation for the creation of the fictional genius Jára Cimrman, a central figure in Czech comedic theatre.
The evening featured a return to those early roots, recreating the atmosphere of the “Nealkoholická vinárna U Pavouka” on stage. Performers recalled how the concept evolved from a necessity – filling time when a play fell through – into the beloved format it is today.
A Lifetime of Collaboration and Recognition
Svěrák’s collaborations with Ladislav Smoljak, Jaroslav Uhlíř, and his son, Jan Svěrák, were also celebrated. His son, Jan Svěrák, is the director of acclaimed films like Obecná škola and Kolja. The event also saw Svěrák inducted into the Czech Radio Hall of Fame by René Zavoral, the director of Czech Radio.
The celebration wasn’t just about accolades. Svěrák also emphasized the importance of humor in navigating life’s challenges. He stated that humor is a “rare gift” and a dignified way to face inevitable defeats.
Supporting a Worthy Cause
Svěrák also directed proceeds from the event to Centrum Paraple, a non-profit organization supporting individuals with spinal cord injuries, which he founded in 1993. He acknowledged that attendees were contributing to a quality cause simply by attending the event.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Zdeněk Svěrák? He is a Czech writer, actor, playwright, and a key figure in Czech comedic theatre, known for his work with Jára Cimrman.
- Where did the celebration grab place? The event was held at the Divadlo Járy Cimrmana in Prague.
- Who attended the celebration? President Petr Pavel, numerous Czech actors and artists, and representatives from Český rozhlas were in attendance.
- How was the event broadcast? It was broadcast live by Český rozhlas Radiožurnál and shown in over 180 cinemas across the Czech Republic.
Did you know? Zdeněk Svěrák received the highest state honor of the Czech Republic, the Order of the White Lion, from President Petr Pavel in October of the previous year.
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