Yuri Kolokolnikov Bio
Yuri Andreevich Kolokolnikov (born 15 December 1980) is a Russian stage and film actor best known for his performance as Styr in the television series Game of Thrones and as Gennadi Bystrov in The Americans. He has worked in more than forty films since 1994, showcasing his versatility across various genres in both Russian and international cinema.
Early Life and Background
Yuri Kolokolnikov was born in Moscow, RSFSR, USSR. His parents divorced shortly after his birth, and in 1985, his mother moved to Canada with Yuri and his brother, Theodore. Kolokolnikov holds citizenship in both Russia and Canada. As a child, he was described as unruly and uncontrollable, which led his mother to send him back to Russia to live with his father. Upon returning to Moscow, he began studying at a film school and became involved in producing children’s shows. His father introduced him to director Savva Kulish, which led to his first small role in the film Iron Curtain. At the age of 15, Kolokolnikov completed external exams for high school and enrolled in the Boris Shchukin Theatre Institute. In 2000, after graduating, he moved to Hollywood, where he worked various part-time jobs while trying to break into the film industry. However, after a year, he returned to Moscow.
Path to Hollywood
Yuri Kolokolnikov’s career began in earnest when he met director Kirill Serebrennikov, who cast him in the television series Diary of a Killer and the play Sweet Bird of Youth at the Sovremennik Theatre, which premiered in 2002. He gained significant recognition in 2014 when he portrayed Styr, Magnar of Thenn, in the fourth season of HBO’s Game of Thrones. This role marked a turning point in his career, introducing him to a wider audience and solidifying his status as a talented actor in the entertainment industry. Following his success in Game of Thrones, Kolokolnikov starred in the 2016 Russian comedy film Breakfast with Daddy, where he played a wealthy man who discovers he has a ten-year-old daughter. He also appeared in the 2017 American action-comedy The Hitman’s Bodyguard, portraying a Belarusian mercenary leader named Ivan. In 2024, he is set to play Koroviev in the adaptation of Mikhail Bulgakov’s classic novel The Master and Margarita.
Yuri Kolokolnikov Career
Early Career (1994–2014)
Kolokolnikov’s career began in 1994, and he has since appeared in over forty films. His early work included various roles in Russian cinema, which helped him hone his craft and gain experience. His breakthrough came with his role in Game of Thrones, which not only showcased his acting abilities but also opened doors for international projects. His performance in the series was well-received, leading to further opportunities in both film and television.
Breakthrough (2014–Present)
The role of Styr in Game of Thrones was a significant milestone in Kolokolnikov’s career. It allowed him to gain international recognition and established him as a prominent actor in Hollywood. Following this success, he took on diverse roles, including a lead in Breakfast with Daddy and a supporting role in The Hitman’s Bodyguard. His upcoming project, The Master and Margarita, is highly anticipated and expected to further showcase his talent.
Notable Works and Milestones
Kolokolnikov’s signature work includes his role in Game of Thrones, which remains a defining moment in his career. He has also received acclaim for his performances in various films, contributing to his reputation as a versatile actor.
Yuri Kolokolnikov Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Yuri Kolokolnikov has received various nominations for his performances, reflecting his talent and contributions to the film industry.
Yuri Kolokolnikov Awards Won
While specific awards won by Yuri Kolokolnikov are not detailed, his body of work and recognition in the industry highlight his achievements as an actor.
Yuri Kolokolnikov Family
Yuri Kolokolnikov has two daughters. His first daughter, Taisia, was born in 2006, and his second daughter, Sofia, was born in January 2011. He was in a relationship with actress Kseniya Rappoport until 2014.
Personal Life
Kolokolnikov’s personal life includes his role as a father to two daughters. He has maintained a relatively private life outside of his professional career, focusing on his work and family responsibilities.
