Zelensky: From comedian to commanding Ukraine's frontline
Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine and a pivotal figure in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, initially avoided politics. He first gained recognition as a comedian and entertainer before becoming the nation's leader almost 25 years later. He celebrates his 47th birthday on 25 January.
Zelensky's journey in television began in 1996. At that time, the 18-year-old actor and entertainer, along with his team from Kryvyi Rih, featured in the post-Soviet programme "Club of the Funny and Inventive," known in Ukraine as "KVN". The show revolved around competitions in pre-prepared comedic contests.
His participation in the show earned him significant popularity in certain Ukrainian circles, leading him to become a prominent figure in Russian cinema a few years later. There, he demonstrated his leadership abilities, allowing him to establish the entertainment empire "Kvartal 95." He subsequently ventured into directing romantic comedies such as "8 New Dates" and "Love in the Big City".
However, his greatest fame came from his role in the popular Ukrainian television series "In-Laws", which also had a massive impact in Russia. A study by Mediascope found this series to be among the most-watched Russian-language series in 2021.
Politicians imposed pressure on Zelensky
Zelensky garnered much affection from viewers due to his relatable approach to the post-Soviet audience. He was less popular in Western Ukraine, where some of his jokes were perceived as offensive.
Moreover, it was acknowledged that Zelensky, being a Russian-speaking actor, found success in the Russian entertainment industry. Concurrently, he gained approval in circles where he showcased his leadership skills. He developed a profitable media business, which over time came under political scrutiny.
His content was subject to censorship. Authorities wanted his programmes to portray parts of the political scene as competent, while depicting others as unscrupulous. Everything changed in 2010 when Viktor Yanukovych assumed power. It was reported that the political satire of "Kvartal 95" did not appeal to him at all.
Volodymyr Zelensky celebrates his 47th birthday. His stage past is scarcely known
Zelensky's programme was aired by the television channel 1+1, owned by oligarch Ihor Kolomoyskyi. His first satirical political project to broadcast there was the adult animated series, which included humorous critiques of both the ruling party and the opposition.
Zelensky found success not only in Ukraine but also in Belarus and Russia. In 2015, he took on the role of teacher Vasyl Holoborodko, who becomes president in the series "Servant of the People". Until 2019, three seasons of the series were broadcast, regarded by many as Zelensky's programmatic manifesto.
Meanwhile, he assembled his team, with whom he participated in the presidential campaign. In 2019, he was elected President of Ukraine, a role he still holds. The 47-year-old Zelensky has become a symbol of resistance against Russia, and his initiatives are frequently discussed in the media.
