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Doha – Mohamed El Khalfi, one of Morocco’s pioneering actors and theatrical figures, passed away on Saturday at his home near Casablanca after a prolonged battle with illness. He was 87.
El Khalfi had recently spent two months receiving treatment at a private clinic in Casablanca before choosing to spend his final days with family at home.
In recent years, he had faced severe health challenges that left him immobile, with some artists and benefactors covering his medical expenses.
Born in Casablanca in 1937, El Khalfi began his artistic journey in 1957 as part of amateur theater alongside luminaries such as Tayeb Saddiki and Ahmed Tayeb El Alj.
In 1959, he founded the “Popular Theater” group, followed by “United Artists,” which featured prominent names including the late Touria Jabrane.
El Khalfi was among the first generation of television actors in Morocco during the early 1960s, where he starred in the first TV series “Attadhia.”
His filmography includes notable works such as “Sukut, al-ittijah al-mamnu” directed by Abdellah Mesbahi, “Hna w lhih” by Mohamed Ismail, and “Ayyam Shahrazad al-jamila” by Mostafa Derkaoui.
He gained widespread popularity for his iconic role in the comedy series “Lalla Fatima” on Morocco’s channel 2M, where he played a member of the Benzizi family.
His theatrical repertoire included acclaimed performances in plays such as “Al Harraz” and “Attabib raghma anfihi.”
The Moroccan Union of Dramatic Arts Professionals confirmed his death, noting his substantial artistic legacy spanning theater, television, and cinema that earned him a special place among Moroccan audiences.
His passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow artists and colleagues in the entertainment industry, acknowledging the loss of a foundational figure in Morocco’s cultural landscape.
Read also: Moroccan Actor Mustapha Zaari Dies at 79
