Emmanuil Vitorgan, the venerable Russian actor known for his significant contributions to theater and film, celebrated his 85th birthday on December 27, 2023. This milestone not only reflects his remarkable career but also highlights the deep family bonds he cherishes.
Born on December 27, 1939, Vitorgan embarked on his artistic path with dreams of becoming an actor. From humble beginnings, he was raised by his father, Gideon Vitorgan, who worked within the food industry, and his mother, Haya Blekhman, who dedicated herself to raising her two sons, Vladimir and Emmanuil. His name carries powerful significance; it honors his uncle, who tragically lost his life during anti-Semitic pogroms.
With his father longing to serve on the front lines but instead contributing to the restoration of the bread industry post-war, the family's frequent relocations instilled resilience and adaptability in young Emmanuil. "Everywhere we went, I always dreamed of the theater. Even at ten, I knew I wanted to be on stage," he reminisces.
After graduating high school, Vitorgan faced initial setbacks when applying to theater schools. Undeterred, he eventually enrolled at the Leningrad State Institute of Theatre, Music and Cinema (LGITMIK), where he learned under the esteemed Boris Zon. His professional debut came with the Pskov Drama Theatre, where he began to develop his craft.
Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Vitorgan's career flourished as he joined various theaters, including the renowned Theatre of Taganka and the Vladimir Mayakovsky Academic Theatre. His performances in plays like 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' and 'The Plague on Both Your Houses' captivated audiences. Even today, he continues to grace the stage, albeit with some disappointment over how much the theater has changed.
On the cinematic front, Vitorgan's career skyrocketed when he appeared as the notorious Gleb Zavartzin in the 1977 film 'And That's All About Him.' His commanding screen presence led him to portray numerous iconic roles, from villains to comedic characters. Vitorgan's unique talent not only enriched his legacy but ensured his place as one of Russia's beloved actors.
Vitorgan’s personal life, filled with dramatic turns, deserves attention as well. His first marriage to Tamara Rumyantseva birthed his daughter Ksenia, but the marriage ended as his heart led him to actress Alla Balter. Together, they had son Maxim and were hailed as one of the most attractive couples of Soviet cinema. Sadly, their love story ended with Balter's untimely death due to cancer, which left Vitorgan devastated. "I would go to the bathroom and hit my head against the wall seeing her suffer. She deserved smiles, not pain," he confided.
Vitorgan found love again with psychologist Irina Mlodik, who is 23 years his junior, and the couple welcomed two daughters, Etel and Klara, after marrying on her birthday. Celebrated for his late-in-life fatherhood, Vitorgan acknowledges the scrutiny he's faced but advocates for his family's happiness, declaring, "Every child faces risks—age is simply one factor."
His heartfelt relationship with his daughters reflects significant familial affection. On his 85th birthday, his wife Irina shared on social media: "Happy birthday, our dear man! Thank you, Emmочка, for being part of our lives! Stay healthy and be with us for many more years." This simple, loving tribute encapsulates the bond they share.
Currently, Vitorgan maintains his presence at the cultural center named after him and enjoys family time with his children, especially his five grandchildren, for whom he expresses immense pride. Despite family dynamics affected by past relationships, he speaks warmly about his ex-daughter-in-law Ksenia Sobchak, expressing his hope for her happiness.
Indeed, he reflects on the perception surrounding his late fatherhood with depth and grace. Some family members find it hard to accept, yet he remains unwavering, believing it is never too late to embrace fatherhood or love. "I've never felt this happy before. Life is full of surprises," he declares, showcasing not just his introspective nature but his fervor for life's new experiences.
Vitorgan's passion for performance remains intact, as he sometimes makes appearances on screen, with his latest showing up during the 2024 release of 'Cinema About Bandits.' With each passing year, his love for acting and the arts endures, demonstrating how this legendary figure continues to impact the cultural scene.
At 85, Emmanuil Vitorgan is more than just celebrated for his past contributions; he stands as a symbol of loving kinship, defying age expectations, and illustrating the importance of family connections. One cannot help but admire his resilience, charm, and heartfelt dedication to those he loves.
