Renowned Greek Actor Spiros Focas, Star of Hollywood Hits ‘Rambo 3’ and ‘Jewel of the Nile,’ Passes Away at 86
In a somber announcement on Friday, the family of Spiros Focas, the esteemed Greek actor, confirmed his demise at the age of 86. Focas, whose illustrious career spanned both Italian and Hollywood cinema, left an indelible mark with memorable performances in iconic films such as ‘Rambo 3’ and ‘Jewel of the Nile.’
The actor’s wife took to Facebook to share the news, revealing that Focas breathed his last in a rehabilitation facility outside Athens. Greek Culture Minister Lina Mendoni paid tribute to Focas, describing him as one of the nation’s “best known and most loved” actors.
Born Spyros Androutsopoulos in 1937 in the port city of Patras, Focas embarked on a cinematic journey that led him to Italy in 1959. Over four decades, he collaborated with acclaimed directors such as Luchino Visconti and Vincente Minnelli, earning recognition for his striking resemblance to the legendary Egyptian star, Omar Sharif. Focas notably starred in Visconti’s 1960 masterpiece, ‘Rocco and his Brothers.’
The pinnacle of Focas’s career came in the 1980s, where he delivered memorable performances alongside Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner, and Danny DeVito. He portrayed the villainous Omar in ‘Jewel of the Nile’ and took on the role of an Afghan Mujahideen warrior in ‘Rambo 3.’
In recent years, Focas faced health challenges and financial difficulties while residing in Corinth. Last July, he was forced to evacuate his home due to nearby wildfires, leading to a hospitalization.
Reflecting on his life, Focas had shared with Star TV three years ago, “Fate was good to me, but in the end, I did not get to roll double sixes.”
Spiros Focas is survived by his wife and daughter, leaving behind a legacy of cinematic brilliance that will be remembered by audiences worldwide.
Beloved and iconic actor Spiros Focas, who starred in many major Hollywood productions in the almost 60 years of his prolific career, passed away this morning at the age of 86. pic.twitter.com/evko8kWKAa
— Niko Efstathiou (@NikoEfst) November 10, 2023
