Omar Diop

Omar Diop was an American actor who is best known for The Chinese, Soul in a White Room. He was born on September 18, 1946, in Niamey, Niger, and he passed away on May 11, 1973, in Gorée, Sénégal.

Personal and Family Life

Omar Diop was the son of a doctor and grew up during the colonial period in French Africa. He received his education in Paris at prestigious schools, where he formed connections with influential leftist leaders and students, including Alain Krivine and Daniel Cohn-Bendit.

Career and Activism

Diop was a significant figure in the student movements of 1968 and faced expulsion from France alongside Cohn-Bendit due to their activism. His involvement in political activism was a crucial part of his life, reflecting his commitment to social change.

Death and Legacy

Omar Diop died under mysterious circumstances in a prison on Gorée Island in 1973. His life and experiences were later referenced by Anne Wiazemsky in her autobiographical novel ‘Une année studieuse’ published in 2012, highlighting his impact on both cinema and political movements.

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
La Chinoise 1967-08-30 Omar
Week End 1967-12-29 Mon Frère Africain (uncredited)