In a broadcast of The Secret of a Million, the actor Sergei Astakhov recounted a difficult chapter from his younger years. He described pressuring his close friend, Roman Vertmanov, to sell his apartment in a moment of financial strain and ambition. The episode, he explained, unfolded during a time when both men faced uncertain prospects yet hoped that a quick influx of cash could jumpstart new ventures. The admission sheds light on the pressure-filled environment they operated in and the personal cost that can accompany bold plans. (Attribution: The Secret of a Million – reported statements by Sergei Astakhov)
Vertmanov later shared that he chose to walk away from the real estate market to gather capital for a startup tied to his own theatrical pursuits. He recalled traveling with Astakhov to Gelendzhik, attempting to monetize newly acquired equipment in order to fund their dreams. The effort ultimately proved unsuccessful, with the funds being exhausted during the stay in the southern region. This account illustrates how enthusiasm for artistic projects sometimes collides with financial reality, leaving lasting implications for those involved. (Attribution: Vertmanov interview excerpts – The Secret of a Million)
Astakhov’s testimony emphasizes a sense of remorse for the past behavior, noting that he was ashamed to have treated a friend in that way. He described paying back only half of the value of the property, a partial restitution that reflected both a struggle to make amends and the limitations of the situation at the time. The narrative highlights themes of accountability, restitution, and the long shadow such actions can cast on personal relationships. (Attribution: The Secret of a Million – Astakhov retelling)
Beyond the housing matter, the actor spoke of a more troubling personal crisis within his family. In December, he disclosed that his daughter Maria has struggled with anorexia. He attributed the onset of the weight loss to ignorance rather than a medical condition, noting that there were instances when she chose not to eat. The story mentions a period during which she reportedly attempted to lose weight using questionable pills, a sequence that persisted for several years. Astakhov indicated that the situation compelled him to seek professional medical advice to ensure his daughter’s safety and care. (Attribution: Astakhov family update – The Secret of a Million)
In a separate note, public records or reports referenced by media indicated that Meladze faced a separate financial obligation, reportedly amounting to 1.7 million rubles owed to the Federal Tax Service. This detail points to broader fiscal challenges that can accompany prominent figures in the public eye, underscoring that personal or professional financial pressures often intersect with legal and regulatory responsibilities. (Attribution: Financial disclosures – contemporary reporting)