Slovenian actress Milena Zupančič dies at 79

Milena Zupančič, a celebrated figure in Slovenian theater, film, and television, has passed away at 79, according to Radio-Television Slovenia. Her artistic legacy, recognized across the Balkans, was built over a career of more than five decades, during which she amassed over 120 theater performances and more than 80 film and television roles.

Zupančič was among Slovenia's most prominent actresses, with her distinctive acting style earning her acclaim throughout the former Yugoslavia. Her significant contributions to the arts were acknowledged with Slovenia's highest cultural honors, including the Prešeren Fund Award for lifetime achievement, the Borštnik Ring, and the Golden Order of Merit.

Although she retired in 2011, Zupančič remained connected to acting until her final days. Many outside of theater will remember her for her role as Meta in the 1973 film "Autumn Flowers," directed by Matjaž Klopčič. She graduated in 1969 with her role as Claire in "The Maids." Zupančič was engaged by the City Theatre Ljubljana that year, joined the Ljubljana Drama ensemble in 1979, and was part of the Slovene Youth Theatre from 1985 to 1987 before working as an independent artist. She returned to the Ljubljana Drama in 1989.