May the 11th, 2026 – New Croatian citizen John Malkovich has been exploring his roots, and he’s since visited Mali Lošinj, noting how taken aback he was at its beauty.
Mere days after being handed Croatian citizenship in a special ceremony held in the City of Zagreb, the incredibly talented John Malkovich has continued his stay in Croatia with a visit to Mali Lošinj. The Oscar-nominated actor initially arrived on the island on May the 9th, 2026, where he took in the area’s famed unique beauty, met with local officials, and expressed his intention to return there with his family.
This visit followed the formal Croatian citizenship ceremony Malkovich underwent, where he was also handed his new Croatian passport. His great-grandparents emigrated from the Ozalj area in the wider Karlovac County to the United States of America seeking a better life over a century ago. Despite the passage of time, Malkovich has long maintained a personal connection to his Croatian roots, nurturing them when he can.
During his time on Mali Lošinj, Malkovich stated that he was particularly impressed by the island’s natural beauty and relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle that we all know so well. He also emphasised his desire and aim to come and spend much more time in Croatia, particularly now he is a citizen.
a quick recap of john malkovich’s citizenship ceremony
New Croatian citizen John Malkovich was welcomed upon arrival in Zagreb by numerous high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Andrej Plenković himself. Interior Minister Davor Božinović ironically said that the internationally renowned actor has taken on “a new role” as a Croatian citizen, before handing him official documents confirming that fact. The process was facilitated through ancestry provisions, which are very common among members of the Croatian diaspora and their descendants.
