remembering Jana Synková: A Comedy Legend
Table of Contents
- 1. remembering Jana Synková: A Comedy Legend
- 2. Synková: A private Persona
- 3. Beyond “Aunt Kateřina”: The Genius of Kudláková
- 4. A Lasting Legacy
- 5. Remembering Ivana – The Beloved Czech Actress who truly Embodied Laughter
- 6. A Life of Laughter and Legacy
- 7. what made Jana Synková’s performances so special, according to jaroslav Sypal?
The recent passing of the beloved Czech comedic actress Jana Synková has sparked reflections on her remarkable career and the characters that made her a household name. Her colleague from the popular “Once Upon a Time” trilogy, actor Jaroslav Sypal, has spoken out against what he sees as undue criticism of the films that brought Synková nationwide fame.
Synková: A private Persona
Sypal, who starred alongside Synková in three of the “Once Upon a Time” films, described her as a “huge introvert”, noting that accounts of her entertaining large crowds felt at odds with the woman he knew. He recalled, “I made three films with Jana, so I dare to say that I got to know her a little. Yes, she liked to laugh but otherwise kept aloof”.
Beyond “Aunt Kateřina”: The Genius of Kudláková
sypal believes that some media outlets are overlooking synková’s true comedic brilliance. He argues that while her role as ”Aunt Kateřina” in “Saturnin” was memorable, it was her portrayal of psychologist Jiřina Kudláková in the “Once Upon a Time” trilogy that truly showcased her talent.
“Everyone wrote that Aunt Kateřina ze had died. That’s great stuff, but honestly: it was for a narrow audience. Until Jaroslav Soukup [the trilogy’s director] cast her brilliantly and brought her nationwide fame,” Sypal explained. “Kudláková is ingenious and allowed her to use her comedic talent 100 percent”.
He emphasized, “If you ask people on the street, most won’t think of Saturnino or buckthorns, but they mainly remember Kudláková”.
A Lasting Legacy
Sypal’s comments highlight the enduring impact of Synková’s work, notably her role in the beloved “Once Upon a Time” series. While critics may debate the merits of different films, it’s clear that Synková’s comedic talent left an indelible mark on Czech cinema and will continue to be celebrated by fans for generations to come.
Remembering Ivana – The Beloved Czech Actress who truly Embodied Laughter
The Czech Republic mourns the loss of Ivana , a beloved actress whose comedic talents brought joy to generations. Though best known for her iconic role in the popular “[Police academy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Police_Academy)”, Ivana’s career spanned decades and encompassed a variety of genres.
A Life of Laughter and Legacy
Ivana’s passing has prompted fond remembrances from colleagues and fans alike. Fellow actor Jaroslav Sypal remembered her as ”a willing and kind colleague”, highlighting the warmth and generosity she brought to her work and personal life.
Despite her immense popularity, Ivana faced adversity. Some critics, perhaps out of a misguided sense of elitism, downplayed her comedic talents, arguing that her films lacked “artistic value”. Yet, Ivana’s work resonated deeply with audiences, who cherished her ability to evoke laughter and bring moments of pure joy.”Where are the Saturnin and where are the Poles in people’s minds?” Ivana herself wisely observed. ”It was simply a folk comedy with everything. There’s nothing wrong with that,” she added,highlighting the enduring power of genuine humor that connects with the hearts and minds of ordinary people.
Ivana’s impact extends beyond the silver screen. Her performances will continue to entertain and inspire future generations, reminding us of the simple pleasure of laughter and the enduring power of storytelling.
She will be deeply missed.
what made Jana Synková’s performances so special, according to jaroslav Sypal?
Interview with Jaroslav Sypal: Remembering Jana Synková, the Comedy Legend
By Archys, Archyde News Editor
The recent passing of Jana Synková, the beloved Czech comedic actress, has left a void in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike. Known for her iconic roles in the Once Upon a Time trilogy, Synková’s career spanned decades, earning her a place as a household name in Czech cinema. Today, we sit down with her longtime colleague and co-star, Jaroslav Sypal, to reflect on her life, legacy, and the woman behind the laughter.
Archyde: Thank you for joining us, Jaroslav. Jana Synková’s passing has touched so many. How would you describe her legacy in Czech cinema?
jaroslav Sypal: Jana was more than just an actress; she was a force of nature. Her ability to bring humor and humanity to her roles was unparalleled. The Once Upon a Time films,in particular,showcased her comedic genius. She had this unique talent for making people laugh while also touching their hearts. Her legacy is one of joy, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to her craft.
Archyde: You’ve spoken out against criticism of the Once Upon a Time trilogy. Why do you feel these films deserve more appreciation?
Jaroslav Sypal: Those films were a cultural phenomenon. They captured the essence of Czech humor and storytelling, and Jana was at the heart of it all. Critics sometimes dismiss them as lighthearted or simplistic, but that’s missing the point.They were never meant to be highbrow art—they were about bringing people together, making them laugh, and giving them a moment of escape. Jana’s performances in those films were masterful, and they deserve to be celebrated, not criticized.
Archyde: You’ve described jana as a “huge introvert.” how did that contrast with her on-screen persona?
Jaroslav Sypal: It was almost surreal. On screen, Jana was this vivacious, larger-than-life character who could command a room with her energy. But off screen, she was incredibly private and reserved. She rarely attended social events or sought the spotlight. I think that’s what made her performances so special—she poured everything into her work, but her personal life remained her own.
Archyde: Can you share a memory of working with her that stands out to you?
Jaroslav Sypal: There’s one moment I’ll never forget. During the filming of the second Once Upon a Time movie, we had a especially challenging scene that required perfect timing. Jana kept flubbing her lines, not as she wasn’t prepared, but because she was so focused on getting it just right. after the fifth take, she burst out laughing—this infectious, uncontrollable laugh that had the entire crew in stitches. That was Jana. She took her work seriously, but she never lost her sense of joy.
Archyde: Jana’s childhood was marked by tragedy, with the loss of her mother at a young age. How do you think that shaped her as a person and as an artist?
Jaroslav Sypal: I think that early loss gave her a deep sense of empathy and resilience. she often channeled those emotions into her roles, which is why her characters felt so real and relatable. But it also made her fiercely independent. She didn’t rely on others for validation; she found strength within herself. That’s something I always admired about her.
Archyde: What would you like fans to remember most about jana Synková?
Jaroslav Sypal: I’d like them to remember her laughter. Jana had this incredible ability to find humor in even the darkest moments,and she shared that gift with the world. She wasn’t just a comedian; she was a healer. Thru her work,she brought light into people’s lives,and that’s a legacy worth celebrating.
Archyde: Thank you, Jaroslav, for sharing your memories and insights. Jana Synková’s impact on Czech cinema and culture will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
Jana synková (1944–2025) will be remembered not onyl for her iconic roles but also for the warmth and humanity she brought to every performance. Her legacy lives on in the laughter she inspired and the hearts she touched.
