Aleksander (Sašo) Hribar (19 March 1960 – 8 September 2023) was a prominent Slovenian radio and television presenter and comedian. He gained fame mainly as a satirist and impressionist, particularly through his radio show Radio Ga Ga. Hribar was considered one of the most popular radio personalities in Slovenia.
Early Life
Hribar was born in Celje but grew up in Grosuplje, where he lived with his parents. He attended Poljane Grammar School and later studied metallurgy.
Radio Slovenia and Radio Ga Ga
In 1985, Hribar started his career at Radio Slovenia after successfully passing an audition and undergoing voice training. Initially, he hosted a night program where he introduced and conversed with a fictional character known as the bioenergetic. Due to the overwhelming positive feedback from listeners, Radio Ga Ga was launched on 6 April 1990. The show continues to air every Friday on the first program of Radio Slovenia.
Television and Council Membership
In addition to his radio career, Hribar also hosted a Saturday television show on TV Slovenia, called Hri-bar, and previously Titanik. He was a member of the program council of RTV Slovenia.
Passing and Legacy
Hribar passed away unexpectedly on 8 September 2023, due to heart disease. Remarkably, just a few hours earlier on the same day, he had hosted the first episode of the new season of Radio Ga Ga. Prominent figures like President Nataša Pirc Musar and Prime Minister Robert Golob expressed their condolences and emphasized Hribar’s significant contributions to Slovenian satire and radio.
Awards and Recognition
Hribar received numerous awards throughout his career:
- In 2006, he received the Ježek Award for creative achievement in the shows Radio Ga Ga and Hri-bar.
- He also garnered nine Media Viktor Awards.
- Several Gongs of Popularity were added to his list of accolades.
Aleksander (Sašo) Hribar left an indelible mark on Slovenian radio and television. His wit, humor, and unique voice made him a beloved figure in the country, and his legacy continues to influence aspiring satirists and radio presenters.
