Alexandra Zhigalova, celebrated People’s Artist of the Russian Federation, passed away in Orenburg at the age of 94. The news was confirmed by the Orenburg Drama Theater, which holds a longstanding connection with Zhigalova through its namesake, Gorky, and where she had been a guiding presence since the 1960s. Her death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Russian theatre, one defined by a lifetime of stage work, screen roles, and a distinctive ability to inhabit complex characters with warmth and authority.
In a tribute from the theatre, officials shared that Zhigalova’s career spanned more than half a century, during which she delivered some of the most memorable performances in world drama. The theatre’s statement reflected on her prolific contributions, noting that she embodied the craft with consistency and an unmistakable presence that resonated with audiences across generations. Her artistry extended beyond a single genre, earning recognition and respect within the theatrical community and among viewers who admired her for longevity, discipline, and expressive range.
Throughout her career, Zhigalova received the highest honors of her profession. She was named People’s Artist of Russia in 1998, after earlier being recognized as Honored Artist of the RSFSR in 1967. Her screen work included Desdemona in the adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello, the character Kalugina in Office Romance, a beloved film based on the screenplay by Emil Braginsky and Eldar Ryazanov, and Vasilisa Egorovna in Alexander Pushkin’s The Captain’s Daughter. Her early stage beginnings took root in Belgorod, where she cultivated the foundations that would support a vast and enduring career in the performing arts.
Separately reported developments drew attention to other figures in the performing arts world. Authorities and media outlets noted the discovery of the body of Dmitry Krasilov, widely known as Pukhlash, a dancer and showman renowned for the TNT project Dancing on TNT and for appearance in Little Big videos. In another note, reports indicated the passing of Otar Ioseliani, a director whose work had influenced various productions. These items stand apart from Zhigalova’s obituary and reflect the broader landscape of recent events within Russian cinema and theatre.