Danila Kozlovsky, the 39-year-old Russian actor, has recently returned to Moscow following his international theater tour. Taking to social media, he shared his surprise upon discovering the emptiness of the once-bustling GUM (Main Universal Store) on Red Square, asking, "А где все?" (Where is everyone?). This moment was featured during the pre-holiday days, highlighting the unusual quietness of the city at such a festive time.
Only days prior, Kozlovsky concluded his tour, promoting his play 'Frank' across various cities. He expressed mixed feelings about his travels, saying, "В этом небольшом путешествии было, кажется, все..." (This small trip seemed to have everything - crazy logistics, postponed performances, and fantastic audience receptions). The actor plans to present his play next in Dubai and hopes to organize performances back home. After several years of absence from the Russian film and theater scene, he strives to re-establish his presence.
Despite his artistic intentions, Kozlovsky's visits to the United States, where his daughter Oda Valentina and ex-girlfriend Olga Zueva currently reside, have drawn criticism. Vitaly Borodin, the head of the federal anti-corruption project, previously claimed Kozlovsky had moved to the United States, only returning to Russia for work. Consequently, this led to cancellations of several planned performances featuring the actor, increasing the scrutiny on his career decisions.
Kozlovsky, on his end, has repeatedly denied these allegations, asserting he lacks dual citizenship and intends to remain based within Russia. Interestingly, even with this reaffirmation of commitment to his homeland, he has not starred in any Russian films or participated in theater for the last several years. This aspect of his professional life fuels public curiosity surrounding his intentions and future projects.
Adding another layer of drama to recent events, Ilya Averbukh, the well-known choreographer and Olympic silver medalist, recently targeted figure skater Dmitry Kozlovsky (no relation to Danila) following his performance at the Russian championship. Averbukh did not hold back, stating, "Навалял, а потом скачет на камеру от того, что сорвал два выброса" (He messed up and then jumps on camera because he pulled off two throws). These remarks came after Dmitry finished second alongside his partner, Alexandra Boykova, criticized for their performance compared to others who received higher marks.
Averbukh elaborated on the comparison, stating, "Знаете, что мне не понравилось в Козловском?" (Do you know what I didn't like about Kozlovsky?). He expressed disappointment at seeing other competitors, Nataliya Khabibullina and Ilya Knyazhuk, displaying superior skills, such as executing the triple Lutz. He questioned the emotional response displayed post-performance, wondering, "Какое 'да' вообще?" (What is this 'yes' at all?). He believed such reactions were inappropriate, especially after not performing to their potential.
This budding drama surrounding both Danila Kozlovsky and Dmitry Kozlovsky lends itself to the complex web of emotions and expectations within the entertainment and sports industries. Aspiring to regain traction, Danila Kozlovsky's artistic aspirations remain overshadowed by controversy, emphasizing the fine line artistic figures tread when balancing personal commitments and professional demands.
With aspirations to return to Russian stages, it becomes evident the artist must not only navigate the industry trends but also contend with public perception shaped by choices made away from home. Only time will tell how these events will impact his future pursuits and professional collaborations moving forward.