El Hedi ben Salem was an American actor known for his roles in films like Ali: Fear Eats the Soul, The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant, and Eight Hours Don’t Make a Day. He was born on March 4, 1936, in Redeyef, Gafsa, Tunisia, and passed away on March 14, 1976, in Nîmes, Gard, France.
Personal and Family Life
El Hedi ben Salem had a family and was married, though details about his spouse remain unknown. He had four children. Throughout his life, he was frequently cast in films by the celebrated director Rainer Werner Fassbinder, which contributed significantly to his career.
Death and Legacy
El Hedi ben Salem tragically died by suicide on March 14, 1976. His works continue to be appreciated in the film community, especially noted for their emotional depth and the roles he portrayed. His contributions to cinema, particularly in collaboration with Fassbinder, leave a lasting impact on the industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Angst essen Seele auf | 1974-03-05 | Ali |
| Die Zärtlichkeit der Wölfe | 1973-07-12 | Französischer Soldat |
| Händler der vier Jahreszeiten | 1972-02-10 | Araber |
| Quand la peur dévore l’âme | 2007-02-01 | Ali (archive footage) |
| Jannat ‘Ali | 2011-11-07 | Self (archive footage) |
| Wie ein Vogel auf dem Draht | 1975-05-05 | Bodybuilder |
| Wildwechsel | 1973-01-09 | |
| Faustrecht der Freiheit | 1975-06-06 | Salem the Moroccan (uncredited) |
| Martha | 1974-05-28 | Hotel Guest |
| Welt am Draht | 1973-10-14 | Bodyguard |