Milena Zupančič, celebrated Slovenian actress, dies at 80

Renowned Slovenian theatre and film actress Milena Zupančič has passed away at the age of 80 following a long illness. A prominent figure in Slovenian arts, she was honored with a state funeral featuring military honors in Bohinjska Bela, reflecting her status as a recipient of the Presidential Order of Merit.

Throughout her prolific career, Zupančič appeared in over 120 theatrical productions and more than 80 film and television roles. She was a long-time member of SNG Drama Ljubljana and also performed with the Ljubljana City Theatre and the Slovenian Youth Theatre. Her notable performances include roles in ‘Vdovstvo Karoline Žašler’ and ‘Klopčičevo Cvetje v jeseni’.

Zupančič received numerous prestigious accolades, including the Prešeren Award for lifetime achievement and the Borštnik Ring. Even after her retirement in 2011, she continued to perform whenever her health permitted.