Veteran actress passes away at 97

Renowned Iranian actress and voice actor Zhaleh Olov, celebrated for her illustrious career spanning over seven decades, has passed away at the age of 97 in Tehran.

Born as Shokat Olov in 1927, Zhaleh began her artistic journey while still a student, working in radio as a presenter and radio actor in 1948.

She graduated from Tehran’s Technical School of Acting in 1950, transitioning soon after to theater and cinema.

Her debut film, ‘The Tempest of Life’ (1948), marked the beginning of an expansive and enduring career in the arts.

Zhaleh was not only a prolific actress, but also a pioneering voice artist. She began voice acting in 1952, dubbing characters played by icons like Sophia Loren, Gloria Swanson, and Susan Hayward.

Her contributions to animated films are equally noteworthy, having lent her voice to timeless Walt Disney classics such as ‘Cinderella’, ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’, ‘Sleeping Beauty’, and ‘Pinocchio’. She also voiced characters in Japanese productions, including the beloved series ‘Oshin’ (1983).

Her acting portfolio included appearances in more than 50 films and TV series. Among her notable movies are ‘The Snowman’ (1994), ‘The Fateful Day’ (1995), ‘Dash Akol’ (1971), ‘Mom's Guest’ (2003), and ‘Retribution’ (1973).

On television, she became a household name through popular series like ‘The Mukhtar Narrative’ (2010-2011), ‘Sheikh Bahaee’ (2008), and ‘The Wolves’ (1986-1987).

In recognition of her contributions to Iranian cinema, Olov was named one of Iran’s “immortal faces of cinema” in 2011.