Ljubiša Samardžić, a distinguished and accomplished Serbian actor and director, entered this world in the year 1936 and eventually parted with it in 2017, with many affectionately referring to him by his nickname Smoki or Smoki Samardi. He is undoubtedly most celebrated for his unforgettable and iconic depiction of Šurda in the cherished and widely popular Yugoslav television series 'Vruć Vetar', a role that has cemented his place in the annals of Serbian television history.
Samardžić's life was forever changed from the moment he took his first breath, as he was born into a family of coal miners, a humble yet resilient profession that has shaped the very fabric of his being. Despite the challenges that often come with growing up in a working-class family, Samardžić's innate acting talent was evident from a young age, a gift that would eventually earn him a prestigious scholarship under the watchful eye of the highly respected director Bojan Stupica. This esteemed mentorship played a pivotal role in nurturing Samardžić's artistic abilities, providing him with the guidance and support necessary to hone his craft. Following the successful completion of his education at the renowned Belgrade Drama Arts Academy, Samardžić's career began to take shape, as he secured a role in the 1961 production of Igre na skelama, a milestone that marked the beginning of a long and illustrious journey in the world of acting.
Not only did Samardžić make a lasting impact in the world of acting, but he also held a crucial role within the Central Committee of the Yugoslav Communist Party during the late 1980s, a testament to his multifaceted talents and abilities.
