Jaroslav Werich's academic odyssey commenced in 1916 at the prestigious "reálné gymnasium" situated in Křemencova Street, Prague, where he would subsequently be joined by his future entrepreneurial companion, Jiří Voskovec. This venerable institution laid the groundwork for Werich's future endeavors, and he went on to pursue higher education in the field of law at the esteemed Charles University Law School from 1924 to 1927.
As Werich delved deeper into his artistic pursuits, his fascination with the world of law began to take a backseat, and he made the courageous decision to abandon his legal studies in 1927, opting instead to dedicate himself to a life in the arts.
In the aftermath of World War I, two visionary artists, Werich and Voskovec, joined forces to create a revolutionary theatrical platform known as the Osvobozené divadlo, or Liberated Theatre, a pioneering entity that served as a beacon for their bold and often provocative left-wing political satires.
The illustrious career of Jan Werich, spanning over a decade, was marked by an extraordinary partnership with his collaborator, characterized by a captivating fusion of humor, satire, and incisive social commentary. This remarkable duo brought their creative synergy to the stage, presenting a multitude of productions that left a lasting impression on audiences.
Throughout the years, Jan Werich's impressive acting career continued to flourish as he worked at various esteemed theatres, including the ABC Theatre, City Theatres of Prague, and the Musical Theatre of Karlin and Nusle, thereby cementing his reputation as a multifaceted and accomplished actor.
In 1967, Werich was initially considered for the pivotal role of Ernst Stavro Blofeld in the James Bond film You Only Live Twice, although ultimately, he did not secure the part due to concerns regarding his suitability for the character.
Despite this minor setback, Werich continued to make a lasting impact in the world of cinema, while also leaving an indelible mark on the world of Czech theatre and film, thereby solidifying his legacy as a talented and influential actor.
