Acclaimed French actor Tchéky Karyo, widely recognized for his pivotal roles in the iconic film Nikita and the gripping television series The Missing, has passed away at the age of 72. Karyo, who had a prolific career spanning nearly forty years, was celebrated for his versatility and powerful on-screen presence.
Born in Turkey and raised in Paris, Karyo’s career began in theatre before transitioning to cinema. He first gained significant attention for his role in the 1982 crime thriller La Balance, which earned him a César Award nomination. His portrayal of the handler Bob in Luc Besson’s 1990 hit Nikita further cemented his international recognition.
In recent years, Karyo found a new audience through his memorable television work. His role as the determined detective Julien Baptiste in the BBC series The Missing (2014) and its spin-off Baptiste (2019) earned him widespread critical acclaim and admiration from viewers. The series explored complex mysteries and showcased Karyo’s ability to bring depth and nuance to his characters.
Lindsay Salt, Director of BBC Drama, paid tribute to the actor, stating, “We are so sad to learn of the passing of Tchéky Karyo. He was a truly brilliant and much loved actor and he will be fondly remembered by BBC viewers for his roles in The Missing, Baptiste and most recently Boat Story. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this time.”
Karyo’s extensive filmography also includes notable appearances in Besson’s Joan of Arc (1993), the epic A Very Long Engagement (2004), Ridley Scott’s 1492: Conquest of Paradise (1992), and the James Bond film GoldenEye (1995). He also famously portrayed the medieval prophet Nostradamus in the 1994 film of the same name.
Tchéky Karyo’s enduring talent and memorable performances have left an indelible mark on the world of film and television. He is survived by his wife, actress Valérie Keruzoré, and their children.