Russian Actors Formerly in Ukrainian TV Series Show Support for Russia’s Invasion After February 24, 2022

Russian Actors’ Stances Following the Invasion of Ukraine

According to Radiotrek — Світ: Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, several Russian actors who previously appeared in Ukrainian television series began openly backing Russia’s military actions. The list includes:

• Anton Batyrev
• Prokhor Dubravin
• Fedor Dobronravov
• Olesya Zheleznyak
• Stanislav Bondarenko
• Natalia Antonova

Notable Figures and Their Political Positions

Anton Batyrev, recognized for his roles in the series "Nothing Happens Twice" and "Ruby Ring," frequently worked in Ukraine before the war and even considered obtaining Ukrainian citizenship. However, after the invasion began, he returned to Russia and voiced support for the so-called "special military operation."

Prokhor Dubravin, who also participated in Ukrainian TV projects, refrained from condemning Russia’s actions once the conflict started and expressed backing for the Russian armed forces. Fedor Dobronravov, famous for portraying Ivan Budko in the series "Svaty," had visited the occupied Crimea before 2022, resulting in a ban on his entry to Ukraine by its Security Service. In June 2022, Dobronravov visited a Russian military hospital caring for soldiers wounded in the war against Ukraine.

Olesya Zheleznyak, known for her role as Larisa Bukhankina in "Svaty," appeared on Russian propaganda platforms following the outbreak of war. Stanislav Bondarenko, born in Dniprorudne, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, but raised in Russia since childhood, declared after the invasion that he considers Russia his homeland.

Natalia Antonova, who collaborated with Ukrainian directors and starred in projects familiar to Ukrainian audiences, told Russian TV host Boris Korchevnikov in 2023:

"My eldest son is ready to fight if he receives a draft notice." – Natalia Antonova

Antonova also emphasized her family’s support for their country, referring to her sons as defenders of the homeland, and has since ceased contact with some colleagues from Kyiv.

These shifts among Russian actors formerly active in Ukraine highlight a significant change in their public positions, now openly endorsing aggression against Ukraine.

Such transformations reflect deep social and political divides triggered by the conflict. Many of these performers, once successful in Ukraine, have become voices supporting the invasion, potentially affecting their reputation and standing within Ukrainian society. This situation also illustrates how artists can become entangled in political disputes, risking their professional relationships and public image.