Janusz Michałowski, star of 'Vabank' and 'Sexmission,' dies at 89

Janusz Michałowski, a celebrated Polish actor recognized for his roles in "Vabank" and "Sexmission," has passed away at the age of 89. The news was shared by his nephew, director Wojtek Ziemilski, who described Michałowski as an introvert who preferred quiet pursuits like collecting oil lamps over public events.

Michałowski's career spanned theater, television, and film. He graduated from the State Higher School of Theater in Warsaw in 1960 and performed on stages across Poland, including in Koszalin, Toruń, Kalisz, and Poznań. He later became associated with Warsaw theaters, notably the Ateneum and Współczesny theaters, and was a prominent figure in Polish Radio Theater.

He was particularly lauded for his performances in Television Theater productions, including roles in "The Master and Margarita," "The Overcoat," and "Paths of Glory." His work in television earned him two awards from the Committee for Radio and Television. While primarily a stage actor, Michałowski also gained widespread recognition for film and television roles, such as Commissioner Karelicki in "Vabank," Professor Kuppelweisser in "Sexmission," and Kazimierz Lulewicz in "Boża podszewka."

Michałowski was married to Izabella Cywińska, a significant figure in Polish theater and television who directed many of his television performances. Cywińska passed away in December 2023, and Michałowski died less than three years later.

“

Uncle Janusz was an introvert, he didn't like public situations, parties. He preferred to stay at home and tinker with his oil lamps – he probably had the most wonderful collection in Poland.