Culture
Death of Khémais Khayati: Tunisian Cinema in Mourning
Tuesday June 18, 2024 – 12:24
Neila Driss
Death of Khémais Khayati: Tunisian Cinema in Mourning
It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of the great film critic and journalist, Khémais Khayati. He left us this Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at the Saint Augustin clinic in Tunis, after being admitted a few days ago for pulmonary problems.
Born on December 10, 1946, the late Khémais Khayati leaves behind an immense void in the Tunisian and international media and cinematographic circles. Respected and appreciated by everyone, he had only friends in this field that he loved so much.
Khémais Khayati played a crucial role in transmitting the love of cinema to entire generations of Tunisians. Personally, he marked my childhood with his cinema show on television, a show that I never missed and which helped to fuel my passion for the seventh art.
Beyond his media contributions, Khémais Khayati has also been a caring mentor to many aspiring journalists and critics, including myself. He was always generous with advice and encouragement. It was thanks to him that I was able to land my very first big interview, with the Egyptian actor Hussein Fahmy. His kindness and support did not stop there; he also guided me during my first coverage of the Cairo International Film Festival, an unforgettable experience that marked a turning point in my career.
The death of Khémais Khayati is an immeasurable loss for the world of cinema and journalism. We remember his immense contribution to cinematic culture and his indelible influence on all those who were lucky enough to cross his path.
May he rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future generations.
