Zvonimir Rogoz
Actor
About Zvonimir Rogoz
Zvonimir Rogoz was a legendary Croatian actor whose career spanned an incredible eight decades, making him one of the most enduring figures in European cinema and theater history. Born in Zagreb during the Austro-Hungarian era, he initially gained fame in Prague, where he became a prominent member of the National Theatre and a fixture of the Czechoslovak film industry during its golden age in the 1930s. He achieved international notoriety for his role as the cuckolded husband in the 1933 film 'Ecstasy' (Extase), starring alongside Hedy Lamarr in a production that shocked the world with its depiction of female sexuality. After World War II, Rogoz returned to Yugoslavia, settling in Zagreb where he continued to perform on stage and screen well into his 90s. His career was characterized by a remarkable transition from romantic leads in the silent and early sound eras to authoritative character roles in his later years. He remained professionally active until the very end of his life, famously becoming a father for the last time at the age of 92, which cemented his status as a folk hero of vitality in his homeland.
The Craft
On Screen
Rogoz was known for a sophisticated, disciplined acting style that blended the grand theatrical traditions of the late 19th century with the more naturalistic demands of early 20th-century cinema. In his youth, he possessed a striking physical presence and a resonant voice that made him a natural fit for romantic and heroic leads. As he aged, he developed a nuanced approach to character acting, utilizing subtle facial expressions and a commanding stage presence to portray wisdom, cynicism, or paternal authority. He was highly regarded for his linguistic versatility, performing fluently in Croatian, Czech, and German.
Milestones
- International breakthrough in the controversial film 'Ecstasy' (1933)
- Long-term engagement at the National Theatre in Prague (1929–1950)
- Founding member of the Gavella Drama Theatre in Zagreb
- Celebrated for his interpretation of Shakespearean roles, particularly Hamlet
- Recipient of the Vladimir Nazor Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1966
- Published his extensive memoirs 'Mojih prvih 100 godina' (My First 100 Years) shortly before his death
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Vladimir Nazor Award for Lifetime Achievement (1966)
- City of Zagreb Award (1960)
- Order of Merit for the People with Silver Rays
- Sterija Award for Lifetime Achievement
Nominated
- Honorary recognition at the Pula Film Festival for career longevity
Special Recognition
- Honorary Member of the Croatian National Theatre
- Commemorative plaque at the Gavella Drama Theatre
- Subject of numerous television documentaries regarding his longevity and career
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Zvonimir Rogoz served as a vital cultural bridge between Central European and Balkan artistic traditions. By starring in 'Ecstasy,' he was part of one of the most significant moments in cinematic history—the first non-pornographic film to depict sexual intercourse and female orgasm, which challenged global censorship laws. In Croatia and the former Yugoslavia, he was revered as a living monument to the history of the performing arts, representing the continuity of culture through various political regimes and two World Wars.
Lasting Legacy
His legacy is defined by his extraordinary professional longevity, having performed in the eras of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, and the independent cultural movements of Czechoslovakia. He is remembered as one of the 'Greats' of the Croatian stage, and his memoirs remain a crucial primary source for understanding the development of European theater in the 20th century. The 'Rogoz' name is synonymous with the golden age of the Prague National Theatre.
Who They Inspired
He influenced generations of Slavic actors by demonstrating that theatrical discipline could be successfully adapted to the screen. His ability to maintain a high-profile career for over 80 years served as an inspiration for the importance of physical and mental health in the acting profession.
Off Screen
Rogoz was famously energetic and maintained a youthful spirit throughout his century-long life. He was married multiple times; his last marriage to Agata Rogoz gained significant media attention due to their age difference. In a feat that became a matter of national fascination in Yugoslavia, he became a father to a son, Rafael, at the age of 92. He attributed his long life to a positive outlook and his continuous engagement with the arts.
Education
Studied acting and drama in Vienna and Zagreb during the early 1900s.
Family
- Ludmila Rogoz (divorced)
- Agata Rogoz (married until his death)
Did You Know?
- He was 100 years old when he passed away, having lived through the birth of cinema and its digital evolution.
- He became a father at the age of 92, a fact that sparked much debate and humor in the Yugoslav press.
- He played the role of the husband in 'Ecstasy,' the film that famously featured Hedy Lamarr running nude through the woods.
- Rogoz was a polyglot who could perform roles in several languages without a trace of an accent.
- He was active in the Czech resistance during World War II while living in Prague.
- His last film role was in 'The Glembays' (1988), released the year he died.
- He spent over 20 years as a leading man in Prague before returning to his native Zagreb.
In Their Own Words
Acting is not a profession; it is a way of life that keeps the spirit from aging.
I have seen empires fall and theaters rise; the stage is the only thing that remains constant.
Age is a matter of the mind, and if you don't mind, it doesn't matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Zvonimir Rogoz?
Zvonimir Rogoz was a prominent Croatian actor and director who achieved international fame in the 1930s. He is best known for his long career in both Czechoslovak and Yugoslav cinema and theater, spanning over 80 years.
What films is Zvonimir Rogoz best known for?
He is most famous for the 1933 film 'Ecstasy' (Extase), where he played the husband of Hedy Lamarr's character. He also appeared in 'The Inspector General' (1933) and the 1988 classic 'The Glembays'.
When was Zvonimir Rogoz born and when did he die?
He was born on October 10, 1887, in Zagreb and passed away on February 6, 1988, in the same city, just months after his 100th birthday.
What awards did Zvonimir Rogoz win?
His most prestigious honor was the Vladimir Nazor Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1966, the highest cultural award in Croatia. He was also recognized with numerous state honors for his contributions to the arts.
What was Zvonimir Rogoz's acting style?
He practiced a classical European style that emphasized vocal precision and psychological depth. He successfully transitioned from the expressive style of silent films to the more restrained requirements of modern sound cinema.
Is it true Zvonimir Rogoz became a father at 92?
Yes, it is a well-documented fact that his son Rafael was born in 1980 when Rogoz was 92 years old, which became a legendary piece of trivia in his later life.
Learn More
Films
1 film
