Veteran Actress Babz Chula Dies

Veteran actress Babz Chula has passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer at the age of 63.

The veteran performer – born Barbara Zuckerman in New York City – was one of Canada’s greatest assets to the arts community and made an unequalled contribution to Vancouver’s independent film industry. Those that knew her speak of a kinship unlike any other on a film set or theatre stage. By all accounts she was a remarkable talent with a heart of gold.

“I feel honored and blessed to have known such a beautiful soul and powerful character,” says local actor Woody Jeffreys. “She was a legend and leader in the acting world and knowing her for some ten years and having had the pleasure of working with her, she certainly raised the bar. You wanted to be, and were, a better actor around her.”

A gentle spirit, Chula - though facing a possibly grim diagnosis of her own - stayed active, positive and optimistic during her ordeal, choosing often to forgo concerns for her own health in an effort to inspire the hopes and dreams of those around her. She was always there with a helping hand to the actors who so admired her work ethic and spirit.

“My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago,” says Jeffreys. “I called Babz and was directed to specialists, natural medicines and advice on how my mother should cope. Babz chose to attack her disease naturally; which I truly believe kept her with us for so long. My mother is following in her footsteps and has been in remission for a year.

"Thank you Babz! Your strength, beauty and light will live and help many people for a long time to come. I love you and will miss you 'My Lady'."

She truly was an inspiration for all. A memorial to honour Babz Chula will be held May 23 at the Arts Club Theatre on Granville Island.

1 Comment in