Acting
Biyouna
Biyouna, born Baya Bouzar on September 13, 1952, in the Belcourt neighborhood of Algiers, was an influential Algerian actress, singer, and dancer who left an indelible mark on Maghrebi culture. She passed away on November 25, 2025, at the age of 73, in Algiers due to lung cancer. Renowned for her vibrant spirit and deep connection to her homeland, Biyouna's artistry resonated with audiences across generations.
Growing up in a musically inclined family, particularly influenced by her sister Leïla El Djazaïria, Biyouna's passion for performance emerged early. By her teenage years, she joined Fadela Dziria's troupe, where she honed her singing and percussion skills, later establishing her own group that performed at local weddings and festivals. Her break into the limelight came at 17 when she began gracing the cabarets of Algiers, eventually captivating audiences at the iconic Copacabana nightclub.
Her acting career took flight in the 1970s with her portrayal of Fatma in the television series *La Grande Maison*, adapted from Mohammed Dib's novel. This role catapulted her to fame, leading her to feature in various genres, from melodramas to comedies, and establishing her as a household name in Algerian television.
Biyouna's career flourished internationally in the late 1990s, with notable films such as *Le Harem de Madame Osmane*, *La Voisine*, and *Viva Laldjérie*, while her performance in *Délice Paloma* as Madame Aldjéria showcased her unique ability to blend humor and drama. Alongside her acting, she made waves in music with albums like *Raid Zone* and *Une blonde Dans La Casbah*, fusing traditional Algerian sounds with modern influences.
Her later years were marked by her battle with lung cancer, a
