Galina Marchenko was cherished for her wit, warmth, and the way she could bring a character to life on screen. On the children’s program Good Night, Kids, she lent her voice and presence to the beloved character Carcushi for decades, becoming a recognizable and comforting figure for countless viewers. Colleagues remember her as a performer who could switch from playful banter to heartfelt emotion in an instant, turning the show into a family ritual rather than a mere broadcast.
One longtime collaborator recalled meeting Marchenko early in her career and witnessing the playful energy she carried on set, often sharing moments that felt like small celebrations. She was consistently described as exceptionally kind and naturally talented, someone who could read a scene and make Carcushi feel real to audiences of all ages. The resemblance between Marchenko and the spirited Carcushi character came to life in her own way, as she stepped into the profile of the figure with a confidence that drew viewers closer to the screen.
According to industry peers, Marchenko faced health challenges in the later years but kept contributing to the program for a time, underscoring her dedication to the show and its young audience. Her resilience and love for the craft shone through, even as the days grew more difficult. Those who watched her work during that period remember a professional who refused to let illness erase the spark of a performer who had become essential to the program’s charm.
When illness created a temporary gap, the production adapted, introducing another voice to carry Carcushi while Marchenko recovered. The adjustment was felt by fans who had grown up with her sound and presence, and the absence served as a quiet reminder of the void her return would fill. There was a clear sense of sorrow among colleagues as they watched her courageously navigate the limitations of illness, yet she remained a symbol of perseverance on screen.
Galina Marchenko passed away after a long career on the program, leaving behind a legacy that stretched across decades. She contributed to the show in ways that transcended a single role, shaping the tone and warmth that became the program’s hallmark. Her work as Carcushi spanned nearly five decades, and in 1998 Gertrude Sufimova stepped into the role, continuing the tradition and keeping the character alive for new audiences. This transition marked a significant moment in the program’s history and highlighted Marchenko’s enduring influence on all who followed in her footsteps.
Since 2023, Irina Langina has become associated with the show, bringing a fresh presence to the ensemble and continuing the conversation around its iconic characters. Langina’s involvement reflects the ongoing evolution of the program while honoring the foundation laid by Marchenko and the many performers who helped shape it. The show remains a living archive of memories, with new generations discovering Carcushi through present-day performances and re-airings.
Former TV presenter Oksana Fedorova remarked that Marchenko’s portrayal of Carcushi bore a strong similarity to the character itself, underscoring how closely her voice and mannerisms matched the beloved creature fans had come to know. Those comments, along with recollections from other colleagues, reinforce how Marchenko’s interpretation of Carcushi became inseparable from the character in the minds of audiences. Her influence endures in the affection with which viewers still recall her work and the warmth she brought to the screen.
In the end, Galina Marchenko’s career stands as a testament to a lifetime spent entertaining and comforting children and families. Her talent, kindness, and steadfast commitment to her craft left an imprint on the program that continues to be celebrated by fans and peers alike. The character she helped bring to life remains a touchstone of nostalgia, linking generations through shared memories of laughter, surprised exclamations, and a voice that felt like a friendly invitation into the world of Good Night, Kids.