French actor Tchéky Karyo, renowned for his starring roles in film and television, has died at the age of 72. His death, attributed to cancer, was confirmed by his agent to AFP news agency.
Karyo, who was born in Turkey but grew up in Paris, had a robust career spanning nearly four decades, transitioning from film to television in his later years. He first gained recognition in the 1982 crime thriller 'La Balance' and later starred as Bob in Luc Besson's iconic assassin film 'Nikita' (1990).
In the UK, he was perhaps best known for portraying the detective Julien Baptiste in the acclaimed television series 'The Missing' (2009), a role that solidified his place in the hearts of viewers.
His family, including wife Valérie Keruzoré, announced his passing. Karyo was born on October 4, 1953, in Istanbul, the son of a Turkish lorry driver of Spanish-Jewish descent and a Greek mother.
After achieving critical acclaim for 'La Balance', which earned him a César Award nomination for Best Male Revelation, Karyo built a diverse portfolio of film roles. His strong presence was apparent in many French films, including Besson's 'Joan of Arc' (1993) and the poignant 'A Very Long Engagement' (2004). He also appeared in Hollywood productions such as Ridley Scott's '1492: Conquest of Paradise' (1992) and the James Bond film 'GoldenEye' (1995).
Karyo showcased his versatility in various roles, notably playing Nostradamus in the 1994 film of the same name and having a brief appearance as a face in a photo album in 'Amélie' (2001).
His esteemed role in 'The Missing', which led to a spin-off series, 'Baptiste', showcased his methodical approach to crime-solving, earning him accolades from audiences and critics alike. Just two years ago, he appeared in the BBC comedy thriller 'Boat Story', further demonstrating his range as an actor.
