Evgeni Leonov (1926-1994) was one of the most beloved and revered actors in Soviet and Russian cinema history. With his unmistakable physique and good-natured voice, he became a national icon, excelling with incredible naturalness in both hilarious comedy and profound drama. His career, which began in theater, exploded on the big screen with unforgettable roles in films like the cult comedy Gentlemen of Fortune (1971), where he played a memorable dual role, the lyrical Mimino (1977), and the dystopian sci-fi satire Kin-dza-dza! (1986). His unique ability to embody the common man with warmth, humor, and palpable melancholy made him a true "people's actor." He is equally famous for voicing the iconic Soviet version of Winnie-the-Pooh, cementing his status as a cultural legend whose popularity remains undiminished.