Nikolaj Grinko (1920-1989) was a Soviet actor of Ukrainian origin, whose film career was inextricably linked to that of director Andrei Tarkovsky. Grinko indeed became an emblematic figure in auteur cinema thanks to his appearances in some of Tarkovsky's most celebrated masterpieces.

Among the iconic films in which he appeared are *Ivan's Childhood* (1962), *Andrei Rublev* (1966), *Solaris* (1972), *The Mirror* (1975), and *Stalker* (1979). Grinko was distinguished by a measured and profound stage presence. He often portrayed figures of moral authority, wise, enigmatic, or paternal men, who embodied a quiet inner strength. His subtle and nuanced acting contributed to defining the contemplative and metaphysical atmosphere of Tarkovsky's works, making him a symbolic actor of Soviet auteur cinema.