Christo Jivkov, a Bulgarian actor known for his role in the 2004 film The Passion of the Christ, died on Friday, March 31, in Los Angeles. He was 48 years old.
Jivkov had been battling cancer, and his death was confirmed by his production company, Red Carpet Films. Jivkov was one of the founders of Red Carpet Films, which he started in 2009. The company wrote in a statement on Facebook: “Today we lost our beloved friend and dear colleague Christo Jivkov, co-founder of Red Carpet. We are truly devastated by this untimed loss. We will never forget you!”
Jivkov had appeared in multiple films, but he was best known for his role as Jesus’ Apostle John in The Passion of the Christ. He was expected to return for the rumored sequel movie.
In addition to his acting career, Jivkov attended the Bulgarian Film & Theater Academy. His first credited role was in the award-winning 2001 movie The Profession of Arms.
The Passion of the Christ star Christo Jivkov died April 1st in Los Angeles at age 48 after a battle with lung cancer. He played John the Apostle in Mel Gibson’s religious epic. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/p9hGOXrTQL
— Sister Mary Joseph (@sscjusa) April 3, 2023
Jivkov’s death has been met with an outpouring of love and support from his friends and colleagues. Italian actress Maria Grazia Cuci, known for movies like the 1999 Bond film The World Is Not Enough, mourned Jivkov on Instagram Saturday, writing: “I still can’t believe you’re gone. Endless pain. Hello Christo, my friend, gentle soul, your fight for life was the fight of all those who love you.”
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Christo Jivkov was an actor, producer, and co-founder of Red Carpet Films who was known for his roles in The Profession of Arms and The Passion of the Christ. He died at the age of 48 in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and an impact on the lives of those he worked with.