In 2001, Georgi Cherkelov was decorated with the highest government prize, the Order Of the Balkan Mountains, awarded to Bulgarian citizens with particularly great merit to Bulgaria.

Born as Georgi Ivanov Cherkelov on 25 June 1930, in the city of Haskovo, Bulgaria, he initially began studying law at the Sofia University, where he remained for three years before transferring to the National Academy for Theater and Film ВИТИЗ Кръстьо Сарафов where he graduated in 1956.

Georgi Cherkelov was one of the most prominent Shakespearean actors in Bulgaria, with memorable performances as King Lear, Richard II, Mercutio, Banco and many other major roles.

Cherkelov's style was intelligent, with expressions based on subtle nuances, heavy pauses and solidly spoken phrases.

His trademark were inborn dignity, loaded calm and incredible presence – unique personal characteristics of this great actor, which he infused into the characters he played.