Poland mourns the loss of a comic legend whose laughter echoed through generations.
Joanna Kołaczkowska, a cherished figure in Polish comedy, has died at the age of 59. Her passing was announced on Thursday by her long-time troupe, Kabaret Hrabi, who shared the heartbreaking news with fans and followers.
“It is with great pain and sadness that we share the news that Joanna Kołaczkowska… our Asia… has passed away,” the group wrote in a heartfelt statement.
The statement revealed that Kołaczkowska had been battling a particularly aggressive form of cancer. She performed with Kabaret Hrabi until April this year, when her deteriorating health forced her to step away from the stage.
“She faced the worst and most aggressive opponent. She fought bravely, with dignity and hope. We exhausted every possible treatment. We believed in a miracle. The miracle did not happen,” the message continued.
According to close colleagues, Joanna passed away peacefully, without pain, surrounded by her family and closest friends. A quiet departure, in contrast to the vibrant life she lived.
“She has left behind an enormous void that nothing can fill – in us, the people who shared the stage and life with her, and in the world of art, which was her space, her home, her breath. Her talent, they wrote, was unparalleled – a phenomenon,” the statement added.
Kołaczkowska’s career began with the satirical ensemble Drugi Garnitur. Her true rise to fame, however, came with the iconic Kabaret Potem, where she worked for ten years. During this time, she also co-founded the independent film studio A’Yoy, showcasing her creative versatility.
In 2002, she became a key member of Kabaret Hrabi, a group that became synonymous with her name. The troupe eventually paused its performances in early 2025, following her cancer diagnosis.
Beyond her comedic genius, Joanna was also a seasoned theatre actress, a writer, and a familiar voice on Polish radio. Her contributions to entertainment were as diverse as they were impactful.
“Thank you, Asia, for the laughter, for the emotion, for the beauty and goodness you carried inside you and shared with the world. Wherever you are now – smiling, radiant, free – we believe you bring your laughter to others as you brought us hope and joy, even in the darkest days,” concluded the tribute from Hrabi.
Her loss has left the artistic community in Poland reeling. Tributes continue to pour in from across the cultural sphere, as fans remember the woman who brought warmth, wit, and humanity to every performance. Joanna Kołaczkowska may be gone, but her laughter will echo on.
