Comedian Zion Baruch Turns 47: Five Surprising Facts About the Star
Israeli actor and comedian Zion Baruch celebrates his 47th birthday. From his beginnings as a military barber to painting, restaurant ventures, and the upcoming return of 'Ma Kashur', we look at five surprising facts about the star.
Actor, comedian, and creator Zion Baruch is celebrating his 47th birthday today, Sunday. Known as part of the prominent trio "Ma Kashur" alongside Asi Israelof and Shalom Michaelshwily, Baruch has become a leading name in the Israeli entertainment industry. Beyond his successful career in television and film, Baruch has developed surprising interests far removed from comedy.
From Military Barber to Stage Star
Born in Ramla in 1979 and raised in the Neve David neighborhood, Baruch served as a military barber at the Tzrifin base during his IDF service. During that period, he began performing with Israelof and Michaelshwily, eventually forming the comedy trio "Ma Kashur," which conquered Israeli stages and screens.
A Passion for Fine Art
Few know that Baruch is also an accomplished painter. Alongside his comedic career, he pursued art for years, and in 2012, one of his artworks was sold at a charity event for approximately 50,000 shekels. In 2015, he even presented a solo exhibition titled "My Sister, the Bride." His love for art began in childhood when he spent time in his father's carpentry workshop and dreamed of becoming a painter.
Venturing Into the Restaurant Business
Baruch did not limit himself to acting, comedy, and art. In 2013, he entered the restaurant industry, partnering with diamond merchant and jewelry designer Tzuri Mesika to open the Japanese restaurant Matsuya in the Diamond Exchange district in Ramat Gan. The restaurant operated for about five years before closing in 2018, featuring a large self-created painting on one of its central walls.
Total Creative Control in "Juda"
Baruch created and starred in the television series "Juda," but his involvement went far beyond acting. In an interview with Channel 12 News, he shared that aside from writing the script, he was involved in character and costume design, cut the actors' hair, and participated in editing alongside director Mani Yacoub.
Meanwhile, fans of the trio recently received thrilling news: Baruch, Israelof, and Michaelshwily are set to return to screens with a new season of their legendary sketch show "HaIsraelim," nearly two decades after its original broadcast. The show is expected to air on Reshet 13 during 2027, with a massive deal reportedly worth 12 million shekels.
Unplugging for the Weekend
Despite a grueling schedule, Baruch has shared that he tries to turn off his phone on Saturdays to dedicate time to his family. In an interview with Menta magazine, he noted that he strives to observe Shabbat, avoids smoking during the Sabbath, and ensures that the "Ma Kashur" trio does not perform on Saturdays.
Today, Baruch is married to actress and model Yana Yosef, and the couple has three children. Alongside his work with "Ma Kashur," he continues to balance acting, creation, and personal projects, proving that his career extends far beyond the comedic roles that made him a star.
