Vladimir Zharikov, renowned for his work as a stuntman, actor, poet, and prose writer, has died at the age of 86. The announcement came through a Telegram channel associated with the Russian Union of Cinematographers, signaling a quiet but deeply felt loss for the film and literary communities.
He passed away on May 10, with the exact cause of death not disclosed. According to representatives of the Guild of Cinematographers, Zharikov had fallen seriously ill in recent months and had gradually lost his sight, a poignant turn that underscored the physical toll of a career built on performance and risk.
Zharikov’s academic journey began at Odessa State University, from which he graduated in 1969. His entry into cinema came five years later when director Yuri Cherny invited him to contribute as a stuntman to the film Port. In that project he performed a pivotal restaurant fight scene, marking the start of a long and varied career in action and storytelling.
Over the course of more than 80 film projects, Zharikov became a familiar presence in both domestic and international productions. He contributed as a stuntman to enduring titles such as D’Artagnan and the Three Musketeers, Special Forces, The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn, and The Hound’s Husband. The Baskervilles, among others, showcased his versatility and commitment to authentic on-screen physicality.
In addition to his stunt work, Zharikov expanded his influence behind the camera. In The Reluctant Killer he took on the role of stunt director, shaping fight choreography and dynamic action sequences. His talent also extended to acting, with appearances scattered across a range of projects. He appeared in The Life and Amazing Adventures of Robinson Crusoe, The Adventures of Petrov and Vasechkin, Ordinary and Incredible, In Search of Captain Grant, and Ten Little Indians, demonstrating a broad capacity for characterization and narrative presence.
Beyond the screen, Zharikov’s career reflected a commitment to the craft of cinema and to the communities that support it. His work bridged the practical demands of stunts and the subtler aspects of performance, contributing to productions that entertained audiences while pushing the boundaries of action design. His legacy underscores the vital role stunt professionals play in shaping the realism and excitement that define memorable film experiences.
Earlier reports also noted the passing of American film director Roger Corman at the age of 98, a reminder that the global film industry has recently bid farewell to several influential figures who helped shape generations of cinema. Corman’s career, much like Zharikov’s in front of the camera and behind the scenes, reflected a lifelong devotion to storytelling, innovation, and the collaborative spirit that fuels film and television production.