Biography
Yossi Banai (Hebrew: יוסף "יוסי" בנאי; יוסי בנאי; April 13, 1932 – May 11, 2006) was a celebrated Israeli performer, known for his work as a singer, actor, comedian, and theater director. Born in Jerusalem’s Mahane Yehuda neighborhood, he was an early and influential member of the renowned Banai family, which produced multiple generations of artists and musicians. Banai began his career in the Nahal troupe, the Israeli Defense Forces’ entertainment unit, where he gained early recognition and honed his performance skills. His siblings Gavri, Ya'akov, and Haim also became prominent actors, while his son Yuval and nephews Ehud, Me'ir, Uri, and Eviatar are acclaimed musicians. Banai helped establish the family’s artistic legacy with his deep, smoky voice, love for French chansons, and collaborations with major Israeli theaters. Known for his comic sketches with Hagashash Hachiver and dramatic stage roles, he won the Israel Prize for Theater in 1998, cementing his place as one of Israel’s most respected performing artists.
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