Zdeněk Svěrák (born 28 March 1936 in Prague) is a Czech screenwriter, actor, playwright, author and lyricist, widely regarded as one of the most significant figures in Czech culture of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Together with Ladislav Smoljak he co-founded the Theatre of Jára Cimrman in 1967, creating the beloved fictional Czech genius whose popularity is a cultural institution in its own right. With composer Jaroslav Uhlíř he wrote over 400 songs, many of which have become folk standards. His screenplay for the film Kolya (1996, directed by his son Jan Svěrák) won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
Zdeněk Svěrák celebrated his ninetieth birthday on March 28, 2026 with a festive evening at the Járy Cimrmana Theatre; the live broadcast was watched by over 180 cinemas throughout the republic, and President Petr Pavel came to congratulate him.
René Zavoral, General Director of Czech Radio, inducted Zdeněk Svěrák into the radio hall of fame during the celebration of his ninetieth birthday.
President Petr Pavel awarded Zdeněk Svěrák the Order of the White Lion, the highest state decoration of the Czech Republic.
Svěrák performed as a special guest at a concert celebrating Jaroslav Uhlíř's eightieth birthday in the sold-out Grand Hall of Prague's Lucerna.
The charity edition of StarDance dedicated to the Paraple Centre, of which Svěrák is a patron, raised a record 43 million crowns.
A Czechoslovak film about a man who returns to school and must come to terms with his son being the better student. A comedy about education, family, and overcoming obstacles.
Summer cinema Kultovka screens a classic Czech comedy about a family trying to buy a cottage from an elderly man. A story full of unexpected twists and heartfelt moments.
Summer cinema screening of the cult film about Jára Cimrman, a fictional genius of Prague theatre, in the pleasant setting of Panelka in Luleč.
A 1951 Czechoslovak film about a screenwriter whose vision is transformed into a musical spectacle at the studio. A comedic take on Soviet methods for boosting agricultural productivity.
Four musical fairy tales by composer Jaroslav Uhlíř and dramatist Zdeněk Svěrák. A performance for children from age 4 with texts and songs that will delight adults too.