Joan Jara a distinguished British actress, has graced numerous films and television shows with her exceptional talent. Renowned for her pivotal roles in iconic pieces like The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976), The Elephant Man (1980), and The Killing Fields (1984), Jara’s remarkable performances have left a lasting impact.
Born in London in 1927, she embarked on her illustrious career in the theatre, mesmerizing audiences with her portrayals in various plays during the 1950s and 1960s. Jara’s cinematic journey commenced in the memorable 1966 film, The Deadly Affair, followed by her captivating appearances in other cinematic masterpieces such as The Man Who Fell to Earth, The Elephant Man, and The Killing Fields.
On the small screen, Jara has graced notable television shows like The Avengers, The Professionals, and Minder, further exhibiting her versatility. Additionally, her remarkable stage appearances in renowned productions like The Importance of Being Earnest and The Crucible have established her as a true theatrical luminary.
Children
Joan Jara is survived by her two daughters, Manuela Bunster and Amanda Jara Turner. Manuela Bunster is the daughter of Joan Jara from her previous marriage to Patricio Bunster. While Amanda Jara is from her marriage to Victor Jara.
These ladies have experienced a remarkable journey filled with resilience and strength. At the tender age of eight, Amanda faced the heartbreaking loss of her father, Victor Jara in a Chilean coup. Manuela was aged 13 at the time. Victor Jara, a renowned singer, theatre director, and university professor, was apprehended, along with his students and numerous other leftists, in a Chilean soccer stadium following the coup that brought the late dictator Augusto Pinochet to power.
Amanda returned to Chile in the 1980s where she resides till this day. Manuela Bunster and Amanda Jara Turner, have also been actively involved in the pursuit of justice for their father’s murder. Their collective efforts have been instrumental in keeping Víctor Jara’s memory alive and seeking redress for the injustices inflicted upon their family.
Death of Joan Jara
Joan Jara passed away in Santiago on November 12, 2023, at the age of 96. Her death happened two weeks before Barrentios was set to be extradited from the US. Her body lay at Centro de Danza Espiral, the dance school she co-founded with her first husband, Chilean choreographer Patricio Bunster, before being buried on November 15.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.
