James Bond and ‘La Femme Nikita’ Star Tchéky Karyo Dies at 72
French-Turkish actor Tchéky Karyo, known for iconic roles in films like *La Femme Nikita* and *GoldenEye*, has passed away at the age of 72. His family reported that he succumbed to cancer on Friday, October 31. The news was confirmed by the French news agency AFP.
Tchéky Karyo: A Life in Film and Television
Born Baruh Djaki Karyo in Istanbul in 1953, Karyo grew up in Paris. He honed his craft in classical theater with the Daniel Sorano company and later at the National Theatre of Strasbourg. His film debut came in 1982 with *La Balance*, which earned him a César nomination.
Breakthrough Roles
Karyo gained international acclaim with his portrayal of Bob, the intelligence handler, in Luc Besson’s *La Femme Nikita* (1990). He successfully transitioned to Hollywood, sharing the screen with notable actors like Mel Gibson and Will Smith.
- 1492: Conquest of Paradise – 1992
- Bad Boys – 1995
- GoldenEye – 1995
- The Patriot – 2000
- Kiss of the Dragon – 2001
His versatility allowed him to excel in various genres, from action blockbusters to historical dramas. Karyo later made a notable shift to television, starring as detective Julien Baptiste in the critically acclaimed series *The Missing* from 2014 to 2016.
Legacy and Recognition
The success of *The Missing* led to a spinoff series titled *Baptiste*, which aired for two seasons from 2019 to 2021. Karyo’s ability to captivate audiences extended beyond acting, as he also recorded several music albums throughout his career.
Over five decades, Tchéky Karyo appeared in nearly 140 film and television roles. He will be remembered as a significant figure in cinema, with memorable performances that left a lasting impact.
