Veteran Soviet actor, playwright, poet, and writer Mikhail Nozhkin, who was named People's Artist of the RSFSR, has died at the age of 90 after a long illness. The news was confirmed by the press service of the Union of Cinematographers of Russia.
Cause of Death and Final Days
According to TASS, which cited the artist's family, a long illness was the cause of death. The actor was 89 years old at the time of his passing. His family added that in recent days he refused both food and water, though they did not disclose the specific diagnosis he battled.
Career and Legacy
Nozhkin's acting career began in 1967 with his debut in the musical film 'Two Hours Earlier.' He went on to star in iconic films such as 'Walking in Torment,' 'Resident's Mistake,' 'At the Beginning of Glorious Deeds,' 'Peter's Youth,' 'Solo Swimming,' and 'Liberation.' The Union of Cinematographers noted that his roles 'bring up humanity and boundless love for the Motherland.'
Musical and Literary Contributions
Nozhkin was also a prolific songwriter and poet. He wrote the anthem of the Immortal Regiment, and his original songs 'The Last Battle,' 'Near the city of Rzhev,' and 'I love you, Russia' became beloved across generations. He wrote lyrics for films including 'Golden Horns' (1972) and 'Finist — Clear Falcon' (1975). Other popular songs based on his words include 'Everything is quiet at the cemetery,' 'It was in the evening,' 'The last train,' and 'We have appointed a new boss.' His most famous performance was 'I drank birch sap in the spring forest' by Evgeny Agranovich from the film 'The Resident's Mistake.' He also authored two books.
Tributes from Colleagues
Colleagues honored his decade-long legacy, saying, 'Dear Mikhail Ivanovich! You are for us forever in the Immortal regiment. Bright memory.' Several tributes highlighted how his timeless works are cherished across generations.
Early Life
Mikhail Nozhkin was born on January 19, 1937, in Moscow.
