Obituary: Ivorian artist Gbizié Troupa Bruno, known as "Zoumana", has passed away in Abidjan

Ivory Coast has just lost one of its greatest figures in theater and popular comedy. Gbizié Troupa Bruno, known to the public as "Zoumana," passed away this Saturday, August 22, 2026, in Abidjan, after a long illness. An emblematic figure of "Faut pas fâcher" and "Théâtre chez nous," he left his mark on several generations with his humor, creativity, and ability to transform social realities into memorable scenes.

Born in Divo, Zoumana discovered his passion for theatre at a very young age at the city's modern high school, where he distinguished himself alongside Fargass Assandé. It was there that he adopted his stage name, inspired by a character he portrayed, which would become his artistic identity.

In the 1980s and 1990s, he came to the attention of the general public thanks to “Théâtre chez nous”, a cult program that popularized Ivorian theatre and gave him national recognition.

His talent truly exploded with “Faut pas fâcher” (Don't Get Angry), a comedy series that became a cult classic in the 1990s and 2000s. Alongside Djiedjuessi, he played a fictional couple whose witty dialogue and comedic situations humorously reflected the everyday realities of Ivorian households. This duo remains etched in the collective memory as one of the most iconic on Ivorian television.

Throughout his career, Zoumana collaborated with major figures such as Adrienne Koutouan, Marie-Louise Asseu, Gbi de Fer, and Omega David, solidifying his place among the great Ivorian comedians. His unique style—expressive gestures, a strong accent, and iconic lines—became an artistic signature and inspired a new generation of actors and filmmakers.

Officially recognized for his contribution to national culture, he was elevated in 2022 to the rank of Officer of the Ivorian Order of Cultural Merit and received an honorary PRIMUD award the same year for his lifetime achievements. These distinctions recognize his role as a pioneer and builder of Ivorian popular theatre.

Weakened by a stroke, he gradually withdrew from the sets, but remained a respected and honored figure until his final days.

His death, announced by the Minister of Culture Françoise Remarck, sparked a wave of emotion and tributes in the cultural world. These tributes recalled his pioneering role and highlighted the precarious situation of Ivorian artists, while also celebrating the legacy he leaves behind.

Zoumana is gone, but his work remains. His characters, his lines, and his humor continue to live on in the memory of Ivorians and in the history of African theater. Through every camera that rolls and every scene that is written, Zoumana's benevolent spirit will remain.