Vadim Zhuk, a cherished poet, screenwriter, and playwright, passed away at the age of 78 in Suzdal on March 20, 2025. His death was reported by film critic Larisa Malyukova, who announced the tragic news during the opening of the Suzdalfest animation festival, where Zhuk had been a prominent figure for many years.
Born on January 30, 1947, in Leningrad, Zhuk graduated from the theater faculty of LGITMiK and devoted his life to the arts. He was known not only for his poignant poetry but also for his work as an actor, playwright, and a guiding artistic force behind various theatrical performances.
For decades, Zhuk hosted the opening and closing ceremonies of the Suzdalfest, enchanting audiences with his sharp wit and charm. However, in a bittersweet twist of fate, the evening before his passing, he was replaced at the ceremony by another host. In a heart-wrenching moment, he observed the festivities from the audience and expressed to Malyukova, "I can't imagine how painful it is for me to watch this fun." These words capture not just his disappointment but also the gravity of losing his place in an event he had long championed.
Throughout his illustrious career, Zhuk amassed a significant body of work, including poems, musical librettos, and screenplays. He co-hosted several programs, famously sharing the stage with Mikhail Zhvanetsky on the much-loved show, "Simple Things." His creativity extended beyond poetry; he contributed to musicals, wrote dramatic works, and was a treasured member of the theatrical community.
As news of his death spread, fellow artist Bozhena Rynska remembered him fondly, stating, "Vadim Zhuk was not only a wonderful poet, but also a good actor and a man with a big soul." Rynska noted that he had even penned poems for her wedding, highlighting the deeply personal connections he forged through his art.
During his life, Zhuk was recognized with numerous accolades, including the Petropol literary prize and the Tsarskoye Selo prize for his remarkable contributions to Russian literature and theater. His influence and the warmth in his performances are cherished, as he seamlessly bridged generations of artists and audiences alike.
Less than twelve hours before his passing, Zhuk shared his last poem on social media. The verses reflected a sense of melancholy, conveying the complexity of life and death: "I was intelligent and nervous, we died once in February and die daily." This poetic farewell resonates with the legacy he leaves behind—an invitation to contemplate the fragility of existence while appreciating the beauty in our shared experiences.
Vadim Zhuk has left an indelible mark on the Russian arts landscape, and his absence will be profoundly felt within the community he helped to nurture. In the words of Larisa Malyukova, who noted his brilliance as a host, the industry's loss is, without a doubt, a poignant reminder of the fleetingness of artistry and life itself. As artists and admirers reflect upon his life, the sentiments of mourning are palpable, honoring a man who not only entertained but also inspired countless individuals through his multifaceted talent.
