Jiří Schmitzer reflects on family tragedy and career

Czech actor Jiří Schmitzer has opened up about the personal tragedies and professional milestones that shaped his life. A significant turning point occurred in 1976 when Schmitzer, driving under the influence of alcohol, caused a traffic accident that resulted in a pedestrian's death. This event led to a prison sentence and caused a permanent rift with his father, the legendary actor Jiří Sovák, who ceased communication with his son until his death in 2000.

Schmitzer, known for his roles in films such as ‘Marečku, podejte mi pero!’ and his long tenure at Studio Ypsilon, also discussed his difficult upbringing, including experiencing bullying during his school years. Regarding his personal life, Schmitzer is a father of three and a grandfather. While he maintains a private life regarding his eldest daughter, he has shared details about his second marriage to tax advisor Irena, with whom he has two children.