Avi Is Gone: ‘Snowfall’ Actor Alon Aboutboul Dies Suddenly at 60

Alon Aboutboul, one of Israel’s most accomplished and internationally recognized actors, has died at the age of 60 after collapsing on Habonim Beach near Zichron Ya’acov on the morning of July 29, 2025.

According to reports, lifeguards performed CPR on the actor but were unable to revive him.

Aboutboul, who most recently starred as Avi Drexler in the FX series “Snowfall,” had an illustrious career spanning more than four decades, with over 100 credits in film, television, and theater. Known for his versatility and charisma, Aboutboul portrayed a wide range of characters from romantic leads and comedic roles to gangsters and Mossad officers.

Born in Kiryat Ata to parents of Algerian and Egyptian descent, Aboutboul’s big break came in the 1986 IDF drama “Ricochets.” He went on to star in films such as Wild Dogs, Mars Turkey, A Place in Heaven, and Forgiveness—for which he won a Best Supporting Actor Ophir Award in 2003.

In Hollywood, he was featured in major productions such as “The Dark Knight Rises,” “Body of Lies,” “Rambo III,” “Munich,” and “London Has Fallen.” His commanding presence also earned him roles in international series like Homeland, The Leftovers, Twin Peaks, and FBI: International.

On stage, Aboutboul performed in the Habima Theatre’s “Hamlet” and in the London production of “The Band’s Visit.” He also pursued music, releasing a single titled “Password” in 2023.

Outside of acting, Aboutboul was politically active, even running for a seat in the Knesset on the Labor Party ticket in 2006. He was vocal about issues such as corruption and the future of Israeli culture.

He is survived by his wife, Shir Bilia, and their four children. The family resided between Israel and Los Angeles.

At the time of his death, Aboutboul was in pre-production on a film titled “Jacob’s Dream,” which he was set to co-write, co-direct, and star in. He was also scheduled to begin filming a new series for Yes TV this week.

In tribute, Yes has announced it will make several of Aboutboul’s notable films and series including The German, Strike, Body of Lies, The Dealers, Leylasede, and London Has Fallen available to subscribers.

Tributes have poured in across social media. Culture and Sport Minister Miki Zohar wrote:

“I was deeply pained to hear of his sudden death. Last night I watched an interview with him, where he talked about filming a recent movie—his passion for the profession still radiated even after so many years in the field… He brought depth and emotion to every role, leaving a deep mark on Israeli culture. May his memory be blessed.”

Amin Joseph, Aboutboul’s co-star on Snowfall, also honored him in an emotional Instagram post, sharing throwback photos and heartfelt words about their time on set together.