Swedish Actor Jacob Ericksson Dies at 58 After Battle with Lymphoma

Jacob Ericksson, a revered figure in Swedish film and theater, passed away on Friday at the age of 58 after a battle with lymphoma, which evolved from a virus he contracted earlier in the year. His son, Hugo Eriksson, 20, described his father as both a stable presence and a best friend, recounting that the final week of his father's life saw a rapid decline in health despite being in relatively good spirits just days before.

Educated at Göteborgs scenskola, Ericksson had a prolific career marked by versatility and depth. He was nominated for a Guldbagge Award for his role in the 1997 film "Adam och Eva" and is well remembered for performances in popular children’s films such as "Tsatsiki, morsan och polisen" and "Lasse-Majas detektivbyrå." Theater editors praised his ability to embody a range of characters, from lighthearted roles to complex dramatic parts, including his role in the Leif GW Persson crime drama "En pilgrims död."

Ericksson's last stage role was in Lars Norén’s "Tiden är vårt hem" at Kulturhuset Stadsteatern in 2021. He was scheduled to perform in Riksteatern's production of August Strindberg’s "Dödsdansen" this fall but had to withdraw due to illness. Throughout his illness, he was surrounded by family and friends who supported him.

Riksteatern’s artistic director, Dritëro Kasapi, highlighted Ericksson’s dedication to his craft, praising him for never compromising on the complexity and depth of his performances. Kasapi reflected on their recent conversations filled with hope for a recovery that, sadly, did not come.

Jacob Ericksson's passing marks a profound loss for the Swedish cultural community, as he leaves behind a legacy of rich, memorable performances that impacted audiences across generations.