Manchev performed over 150 roles his professional carreer, appearing at the Satirical Theatre "Aleko Konstantinov". In 2007 Manchev was awarded the cultural "Golden Mummer" prize for special merit.

Born in 1934 he was one of the most active participants in a group of actors who during the totalitarian era satirized the Communist regime. Manchev appeared in at least a dozen films, beginning in 1966 with Torrid Moon. His last screen role was in Tedi Moskov's 2002 film Rhapsody in White.

"With Manchev's disappearance we lose one of our emblematic faces," colleagues said in tribute.

A memorial ceremony will take place at the Satirical Theatre on January 16.