Celebrated Russian actor, playwright, poet and writer Mikhail Nozhkin, honoured with the title of People’s Artist of the RSFSR, has passed away at the age of 90 following a prolonged illness.
His death was announced by the press service of the Union of Cinematographers of Russia.
According to his family, who spoke to TASS, a long illness was the cause of death, with reports indicating that in his final days he had refused both food and water. The specific diagnosis he battled was not disclosed.
Born on January 19, 1937, in Moscow, Nozhkin launched his acting career in 1967 with his debut in the musical film “Two Hours Earlier.”
He went on to deliver memorable performances in iconic Soviet productions including “Walking in Torment,” “Resident’s Mistake,” “At the Beginning of Glorious Deeds,” “Peter’s Youth,” “Solo Swimming,” and “Liberation,” films his colleagues described as works that “bring up humanity and boundless love for the Motherland.”
Beyond acting, Nozhkin left a lasting mark as a songwriter and poet.
He authored the anthem of the Immortal Regiment and penned beloved songs such as “The Last Battle,” “Near the City of Rzhev,” and “I Love You, Russia,” which have resonated across several generations.
His most celebrated performance remains “I Drank Birch Sap in the Spring Forest” from the film “Resident’s Mistake.” He also authored two books and wrote lyrics for several notable films.
Paying tribute, his colleagues wrote:
“Dear Mikhail Ivanovich! You are for us forever in the Immortal Regiment. Bright memory.”
