— Olga, the aspiring lawyer central to the story of “Poor Oligarch.” Delve into her role and its impact on the narrative.
“When the script arrived, I could tell Olga would be a standout. She is a young, serious yet upbeat and principled lawyer who evolves in the company of a struggling oligarch and his team. Olga’s intelligence shines as she helps avert danger, earning an invitation to join their world in the next season. Love threads into the plot, but the full story unfolds only by watching the series on TNT and seeing Olga’s choices unfold for herself.”
“For Olga, the Victor case marks the first major challenge in her legal career. Has she portrayed a lawyer before, or is this a dual moment for you as an actor?”
— It’s fair to call it a double exit, with hopes that both paths will pay off in due course.
— Do you think you could become a real-life lawyer, defending clients in court and crafting clever legal strategies?
“It seems Olga could be anyone. Loving the job and finding happiness in it matters most. I graduated with honors and was on track to work in finance, yet this calling felt right. I’m genuinely happy to be an actor, and I hope the audience shares that sentiment.”
— The producer of “Poor Oligarch” is Sarik Andreasyan; you also contributed to the TV series “Karantinada Nagiyev” and “On Duty Life.” Do you enjoy collaborating with him?
— I met Sarik long ago at a Prague film festival. I’m grateful he invited me to his projects. Now we share another collaboration in the series “Deniska’s Stories.” Throughout her career, she has always wanted to explore the world of wholesome family cinema, and this dream is becoming a reality. Many viewers may remember the 1970 film adapted from Dragunsky’s stories, which remains a touchstone in her memory.
A pleasant surprise has been the chance to work on set with the author’s grandson, who directed that earlier piece. The experience with Artemy is smooth and engaging, and the cast on set is kind and supportive.
— How did shooting “Poor Oligarch” feel? Was Timur Batrutdinov a good on-screen partner?
“Shooting flowed quickly. There were few long shifts, and working with masters like Vladimir Sychev and Maxim Lagashkin brought only positive energy. They foster ease and fun on set. Sometimes they teased: ‘Yanana, why so serious?’—which suits Olga, a character who remains focused amid a flood of legal terminology.”
On a certain day, Timur joined with a bright, uplifting presence, promising to add color to the project as it moved forward.
— In August, a new series featuring you premiered—“Cyber Ivan”—where you portray an officer’s wife. In this story, a robotic maid moves into your mansion. What are your thoughts on artificial intelligence? Could machines ever replace actors?
— NO! A robot can be a useful helper, but it cannot replace human beings. “Cyber Ivan” demonstrates this: the lead character remains a true family friend because he is a living, feeling person.
— This year, the TV series “Ranetki,” a landmark in your career, celebrated its 15th anniversary. If given the chance, would you return to the role of Polina Zelenova today?
— The role in “Ranetki” is dear, yet there are many other heroines she would be eager to explore. The doors to new characters remain open.
— Your filmography includes numerous projects shot in the USA. Do you dream of pursuing an international career?
— There was a time for such plans, but today the focus is on work in Russia: films, theater, and family life. Times change rapidly, so she avoids overthinking the future.
— In addition to films, you also work in theatre. This October, the Malaya Ordynka Theater will host the premiere of the film adaptation “Amphibian Man,” based on Alexander Belyaev’s novel. Olga plays the Old Man’s girlfriend in the play. Do you believe love knows no obstacles?
— The theatre repertoire includes several productions, from Saint-Exupéry’s “The Little Prince” to Fitzgerald and Mayakovsky’s “Tender Is the Night.” The premiere of “Amphibian Man” is on the way. Love threads through many roles, facing challenges and barriers, yet it remains the driving force that makes people better.