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Leonid YakubovichHost of the program Field of Miracles
Date of Birth: 31.07.1945
Country:  Russia |
Content:
- Childhood and Family Background
- Expulsion from School and Excursion into the Wilderness
- Deciding on a Career and Pursuing Arts
- Early Artistic Endeavors and Breakthrough
- Hosting "Field of Miracles"
- Acting Career and Personal Life
- Hobbies and Passions
- Philosophy and Values
- Recent Career Developments and Legacy
Childhood and Family Background
Leonid Yakubovich was born in Moscow on July 31, 1945, to Arkady Yakubovich, a design bureau chief engineer, and Rimma Yakubovich, a gynecologist. Their acquaintance took an unusual turn during the Great Patriotic War when Rimma was sending parcels to the frontlines. One of those packages, containing knitted gloves, ended up in the hands of Captain Arkady Yakubovich, who noticed that both gloves were made for the same hand. Intrigued, he wrote a reply to the sender, and soon after, they met and married.
Expulsion from School and Excursion into the Wilderness
Growing up, Yakubovich was taught independence by his parents. Initially, he did well in school until his expulsion from the eighth grade due to truancy. The reason for his absence was an expedition to Eastern Siberia, where Yakubovich and a friend tested mosquito repellents by intentionally exposing themselves to insect bites. The expedition extended beyond the start of the school year, leading to his expulsion.
Upon his return to Moscow, Yakubovich faced the consequences of his adventure. Undeterred, he enrolled in evening classes at a local school and simultaneously worked as an electrical mechanic at the Tupolev factory.
Deciding on a Career and Pursuing Arts
As Yakubovich reached the age of professional decision-making, he expressed his desire to become an artist. However, his father, a traditionalist, advised him to acquire a different type of education first. Therefore, Yakubovich enrolled in the Moscow Institute of Electronic Engineering.
Despite his chosen field of study, Yakubovich did not abandon his artistic aspirations. He joined the student drama club and the KVN comedy team. To focus more on KVN, he transferred to the V.V. Kuibyshev Engineering and Construction Institute, which boasted a strong KVN team. These years proved to be unforgettable for Yakubovich, filled with camaraderie, travel, and his first love.
Early Artistic Endeavors and Breakthrough
Yakubovich's artistic career began in earnest during his university days when he performed as part of KVN teams. After graduating, he worked at the Likhachev plant for six years and later spent three years in the start-up and adjustment department. All the while, he continued to write short stories as a means of expressing his creativity.
In 1980, Yakubovich joined the Moscow Dramatists' Committee, and his work gradually gained recognition. However, since other artists performed his pieces, his own name remained relatively unknown. Notably, his monologue "Monosyllable of the Senior" became highly popularized by Vladimir Vinokur. Yakubovich penned nearly three hundred works that were performed by renowned artists such as Vaynaroisky, Petrosyan, and Vinokur. His plays, including "Tutti," "Hotel with Ghosts," and "Ku-ku, Man!", also achieved widespread success.
Yakubovich's rise to national fame occurred in 1991 with the launch of the television program "Field of Miracles." The show's premise was inspired by the American game show "Wheel of Fortune." Despite initial skepticism, "Field of Miracles" quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
Hosting "Field of Miracles"
Yakubovich's ability to captivate audiences and his characteristic charisma made him the perfect choice to host "Field of Miracles." He took over the show in 1991, inheriting it from Vladislav Listyev. Initially facing some challenges, Yakubovich managed to win over the public, transforming the program into a beloved staple of Russian television.
Acting Career and Personal Life
Yakubovich's artistic journey extended beyond "Field of Miracles." He ventured into the realm of acting, making his film debut in 1980 with "Once Twenty Years Later." He went on to appear in over twenty films, often portraying memorable albeit smaller roles.
Yakubovich has been married twice. His first marriage to Galina resulted in the birth of their son, Artem, in 1973. In 1998, he became a father again after his second wife, Maria, gave birth to their daughter, Varvara. In 2000, he welcomed a granddaughter when his daughter-in-law, Sofia, gave birth to his first grandchild.
Hobbies and Passions
Yakubovich is an avid car enthusiast and has participated in safari races. He has also mastered flying and holds the distinction of participating in the first Aerospace Olympics in 1997. Additionally, Yakubovich pursues interests including billiards, skiing, cooking, preference (a card game), collecting antique books, and coin collecting.
Philosophy and Values
Yakubovich considers himself a conservative individual who believes that good people should remain consistent throughout their lives. However, he recognizes the importance of embracing progress and personal growth. He maintains that true goodness remains unaffected by wealth, and that positive societal change relies on individuals upholding ethical principles.
In 2021, Yakubovich discussed longevity with Elena Malysheva on the program "Live Healthy!"
Recent Career Developments and Legacy
Despite his advanced age, Yakubovich remains active both professionally and personally. He continues to host "Field of Miracles" and regularly engages in his passion for flying. In 2022, he agreed to star in a theatrical production of "The Miser" at the New Theatre, also assuming the role of artistic director for the play.
Leonid Yakubovich's contributions to entertainment have significantly impacted Russian popular culture. His unique style, wit, and ability to connect with audiences have earned him the admiration and respect of generations.
