In a candid on‑air moment on the show Stars Gathered, broadcast by NTV, actor Yuri Grigoriev revealed that he received a cancer diagnosis in 2019. He spoke openly about the severity of his illness, noting that, according to Glisson, the described tumor was at the ninth stage out of ten possibilities. That information suggested a grim prognosis, yet Grigoriev insisted that his personal well‑being remained unexpectedly strong. He recounted reaching out for help to a trusted friend, Leonid Yarmolnik, who, upon hearing about Grigoriev’s situation, connected him with a group of doctors regarded as exemplary by people close to the artist. This network of support and expertise became a turning point in his journey through illness.
Following that consultation, Grigoriev underwent radiation therapy. Initially, doctors proposed surgical intervention, but the actor chose to continue his theatrical duties instead. He describes a rhythm of life during that period that balanced professional commitment with medical treatment. Every morning for two months, he walked, enduring some discomfort and a few challenging sensations, yet driven by a powerful desire to keep performing. He emphasizes that the motivation to work carried him through the tougher days, and that the combination of therapy and resilience led to a positive outcome: he was alive, healthy, and still active on stage. The long days of treatment were punctuated by the satisfaction of returning to the stage, a place that provided him with purpose and a sense of normalcy amid the upheaval of illness.
Grigoriev is widely recognized for his portrayal of Professor Seleznev in the science‑fiction film Guest from the Future and for his appearances in Good night guys! He is also known for hosting a program that has become part of his signature presence on television. The arc of his life and career, including the cancer experience, has been shared in various interviews and appearances, where he reflects on the balance between health, art, and public life. The actor’s story resonates with audiences who see in him a figure who continued to perform and engage with viewers even while navigating a serious health challenge, illustrating how professional dedication can intersect with personal trials. At moments like these, the narrative emphasizes not just the medical facts, but the human element—the support from friends and colleagues, the steadfast commitment to craft, and the enduring connection with the audience that characterizes Grigoriev’s career and public persona. {citation: public broadcast and press interviews}