Saša Kopljar (Osijek, September 25, 1962) is a Croatian television presenter and journalist. He is recognized by the public as a long-standing face of news programs – primarily because of the role of head of the main Dnevnik Nova TV. After several decades in the media, Kopljar enjoys the reputation of one of the favorite and most reliable Croatian journalists. Below is an overview of his life and professional journeys – from the first steps in journalism, through war reporting, to the recognition he gained as a host of central television news.
Early life and education
Saša Kopljar was born on September 25, 1962 in Osijek. His mother was Gita Šerman-Kopljar, a famous Croatian actress and opera singer, and Šime’s father was a technical culture teacher in elementary school. He received his education at Josip Juraj Strossmayer University in Osijek – he graduated in Yugoslav literature and languages. Already during his studies, he was engaged in journalism: he wrote for the youth press and worked as a correspondent Večernji list from his hometown.
journalistic career
Kopljar’s journalistic career began in the late 1980s. He first established himself as a correspondent for Večernji list in Osijek, and in 1988 he moved to Croatian Radio and Television (HRT) – where he became the editor of the Osijek television newsroom. During the Homeland War (1991–1995), he reported from the battlefields in Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. He is one of the few domestic journalists who was at the front: in 1991 he was a member of HRT’s team attacked in the Osijek settlement of Brijest, during which one colleague was killed and the other was seriously wounded.
After the war, he moved to Zagreb and quickly progressed. Since 1992, he became editor-in-chief and manager Dnevnik HRT, Central Public Television Shows. At that time, he followed the work of the Government, the Parliament and the Office of the President of the Republic, but also hosted various shows – including accompanying entertainment and mosaic programs (eg. everyday life, Bingo, Placa, Pjaca, Trg) ).
In 2004, Kopljar moved to commercial Nova TV. He runs a news program on Nova TV Diary 24 hours (2004–2005), and since 2005 he has become the face and head of the main Dnevnik Nova TV. Under his leadership, Dnevnik Nova TV becomes the most watched news show in Croatia. During his career, Kopljar often emphasized that staying in the news program was his life goal – in fact he never wanted to move into fun television or stage journalism, despite the family background in the theater.
achievements and recognitions
Kopljar’s professionalism was rewarded with numerous recognition and high audience ratings. Key achievements include:
- The most watched news show in the country: Under Kopljar’s leadership, Dnevnik Nova TV It became the most watched news show in Croatia.
- High popularity: In the 2016 survey, he ranked among the 15 most popular television presenters in the country.
- Media awards: Dnevnik Nova TV He received awards for promoting democracy, media freedom and human rights, thanks to the objectivity and professional approach that Kopljar guarantees.
- Viewer’s trust: According to audience polls, the show hosted by Kopljar holds the title of the most reliable news program.
personal life
Saša Kopljar is married to Renata Kopljar, with whom she has two children: daughter Ariana and son Fran. Before that, he was married to the writer Julijana Matanović. He prefers to spend his free time with his family – they can often be seen traveling together or walking around the city. In the summer, they can usually be found in the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County (Primošten), although he himself admits that the Adriatic Sea is “too cold” for him to swim.
It is an interesting detail that, despite the family’s theatrical heritage, he was never attracted to a stage role. He was once to play a protagonist in a children’s musical Šegrt Hlapić, but due to tremen, that project was not realized. His family has always been in first place – for example, Gita Šerman-Kopljar’s mother passed away in 2009 (Saša found this sad news at work), and his father Šime also died five years earlier. In the interviews, Saša spoke emotionally about these losses and closeness to his parents, emphasizing how much they meant to him and how attached he was to his mother, who was a great support for him.
Conclusion
Today, Saša Kopljar is considered one of the most respected television journalists in Croatia. With his long career, professional approach and calming leadership style, he gained the trust of a wide audience. Numerous generations of viewers have learned to recognize Dnevnik Nova TV by his reliable face and serious tone. If you liked this biography of Saša Kopljar, share the article and leave a comment! For more similar stories about domestic media people, follow our blog and stay up to date with news.
Sources: The presented data are based on available biographical texts and journalistic sources, including statements and publications made by Saša Kopljar to the media. The content was compiled to offer the reader a comprehensive view of the life and career of this famous Croatian television presenter.
