Olivera Marković: Why the Serbian Stage Diva Kept Her First Husband’s Name and Hid Her Private Life?
It’s been 14 years since the legendary Olivera Marković left us, one of Serbia’s greatest acting divas. Despite enjoying immense fame and being one of the most talented actresses of her time, her private life remained almost unknown to the public. Why? Because Olivera knew how to separate work from privacy and did not allow her intimate life to become tabloid fodder.
Love and a Marriage That Confused the Nation
Olivera was married to actor Rade Marković for 17 years. During that time, they were one of the most popular couples in Serbia, admired and followed by many. However, even after their divorce, tabloids of that era never found out about it, which speaks volumes about their discretion and respect for privacy.
After her marriage with Rade, Olivera entered a new relationship with colleague Dušan Bulajić, with whom she spent over 30 years. Surprisingly, Olivera did not take his surname at the registry office. Instead, she reverted to her maiden name Đorđević but kept the surname Marković, as it was the name under which she gained fame and which was connected to her son Goran Marković, one of Serbia’s most successful directors.
Acting Career and Roles That Made Her Famous
Younger audiences might know Olivera from roles in popular TV series like “Bolji život” (Better Life), “Srećni ljudi” (Happy People), and “Porodično blago” (Family Treasure), where she played strong-willed ladies. However, her career began with roles as seductresses and beauties, and she never liked playing characters like Ophelia or Juliet. She once said she played silly, cunning ladies and high-society vixens, showing her versatility and boldness in role choices.
A Private Life Full of Warmth and Love for Animals
Olivera was also known as a great animal lover. She had a white poodle she adored, and after the dog passed away, she continued feeding street dogs and cats. Her neighbor remembers her walking down the street with big green sunglasses, leaving an impression of an interesting and unique person.
Why Olivera Marković Still Matters
Olivera Marković left an indelible mark on the Serbian stage and serves as an example of how to maintain dignity and privacy in a world where that is rare. Her decision to keep her first husband’s surname, despite spending decades with another man, shows how connected she was to her roots and family.
Conclusion
Olivera Marković remains a symbol of true acting class and personal discretion. In an era when every detail of celebrities’ private lives is exposed, her story reminds us that it is possible to be successful and famous while keeping a part of yourself just for yourself.
If you think today’s celebrities have lost their way in privacy, Olivera Marković proves otherwise. What do you think? Could you keep such a secret in today’s world? Share your thoughts — you might just surprise us all!
