News came today that Igor Yasulovich, a revered figure in Russian film and theatre, has passed away at the age of 82. The information was shared by representatives of GITIS on the institution’s official Telegram channel, confirming the loss to the cultural community and to audiences who grew up with his performances on stage and screen.
The educational and artistic community issued a formal notice expressing deep sorrow for the departure of a remarkable master who held the title of People’s Artist of Russia. The statement underscored Yasulovich’s lasting contributions to the arts and his influence as a teacher, mentor, and performer who shaped generations of actors through his work and through the students he guided at GITIS and beyond.
Earlier this year, Yasulovich faced serious health challenges. In mid-July he was admitted to hospital where doctors addressed fluid buildup connected to kidney issues with two minor procedures. A subsequent, more extensive abdominal surgery followed as part of the medical team’s efforts to stabilize and treat the condition. After careful care and monitoring, his condition showed signs of improvement, allowing for discharge on August 11. The period that followed saw intense care focused on recovery and rehabilitation, reflecting the enduring bond between the actor and the medical staff who supported him during a difficult time.
On the night of August 15, the artist again required urgent medical assistance due to severe pain. This development marked another challenging moment in his health journey, prompting medical professionals to respond with the expertise and urgency that characterized his earlier treatment. The episodes around this time highlighted the vulnerability that even celebrated performers experience when confronting serious illness, and they prompted an outpouring of support from fans, colleagues, and institutions across the country who remembered Yasulovich not only as a screen and stage presence, but as a cherished cultural figure who inspired countless aspiring actors.
Igor Yasulovich will be remembered for a career that spanned cinema classics and stage triumphs. He is best known for his memorable appearances in widely beloved films such as The Diamond Arm and The Twelve Chairs, works that left an indelible mark on Russian popular culture. His performances contributed to the enduring appeal of these films, and his talent was celebrated by audiences who discovered new layers to his characters with each viewing. Additionally, his role in Midshipmen, Go! showcased his ability to balance humor with a sense of adventure, endearing him to audiences who value both entertainment and character depth in classic cinema. Beyond his screen achievements, Yasulovich’s influence as an educator and mentor helped cultivate a vibrant theatre tradition, guiding younger performers as they navigated the demanding paths of acting, directing, and dramaturgy. His career stands as a testament to the importance of artistic training, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of craft, qualities that continue to resonate with actors and students across Russia and beyond.
In related news, the entertainment world also learned of the passing of David Ostrosky, a renowned Mexican actor, who died at the age of 67. Ostrosky’s career touched television and cinema, contributing to a diverse body of work recognized by audiences in Mexico and abroad. His legacy adds to a wider reflection on the international community of actors who leave lasting imprints through their performances and collaborations across different media and generations.