Uri Gottlieb at 57: 'If I Wanted Children, I Would Already Have Them'
Israeli actor and comedian Uri Gottlieb reflects on his vibrant career at 57, his unique relationship lifestyle, and finding professional clarity.
Actor and comedian Uri Gottlieb, who recently turned 57, reflects on his career, finding peace, and his perspective on relationships and life in a candid interview. Known for his dynamic career spanning acting, hosting, and radio, Gottlieb feels he has finally reached a precise and fulfilling sweet spot in his professional and personal life.
Embracing Theater and Balance
"About a month ago, I was backstage at the play 'Little Lies' in which I perform, and suddenly I felt inside that I am in the exact right place right now," Gottlieb shares. He notes that he has recently fallen in love with the theater world, alongside regular appearances on the show 'Evening with Guy Pines' and occasional morning hosting on public radio. Currently, he is deep into rehearsals for the new comedy sketch show 'Until the Rabbinate It Will Pass' by the To Mix theater, directed by Moshe Naor, performing alongside Maya Dagan and Rafael Abbas.
The show explores the intricate dynamics of a long-term couple, touching on romance, challenges, and major life milestones. Commenting on his personal life, Gottlieb, who has been in a four-year relationship with his partner Hila, shares a unique perspective on domestic life: "It took me a long time to believe that people can truly stay together for many years. Now, thank God, I have a wonderful girlfriend of four years. But the whole routine of living together and raising children for 60 years has dissolved in my perception. We live in separate apartments, and I don't have children, which is also very nice."
Humor as a Mission
Looking back at his childhood in Tel Aviv, Gottlieb recalls that humor was his shield and superpower against insecurity. Over the past three difficult years, he has brought that humor to evacuated families and soldiers. "At first, I didn't have funny things to say; I simply went with Mosh Ben Ari and Eli Finish to hug and strengthen them. But I soon realized that this audience desperately craved humor, especially those who suffered heavy disasters, and I understood that this is my calling."
Reflecting on the evolution of Israeli comedy since October 7, Gottlieb notes that the discourse has become far more sensitive and charged. "Comedians are much more careful today, realizing there are things we can no longer joke about. Yet, people will never stop laughing, and comedians will always keep entertaining."
