Akhedzhakova explained why she cannot emigrate from Russia

People’s Artist of Russia Liya Akhedzhakova, recently deprived of roles in the Sovremennik Theater amid opposition statements, spoke about the prospects for her possible emigration. The 84-year-old star of Soviet cinema and theater said that she was not going to leave the country, although she received such offers.

“I can’t emigrate yet,” Akhedzhakova admitted. – Dima Krymov has already invited me to come to him in America, where he will stage a performance for me. But I don’t have the strength for it, not that age.”

Recall that Liya Akhedzhakova is one of the few acting actresses of the Soviet theater and cinema; for more than half a century, she played in the Sovremennik Theater. At the same time, in recent years, her repertoire has narrowed to a few age roles.

The actress in the post-Soviet years is known for her active civic position and liberal convictions – for many years she has caused dissatisfaction with the right-wing patriotic wing of social activists and publicists. After the start of a Russian special operation in Ukraine, which Akhedzhakova did not approve of, her remarks provoked letters from “disgruntled citizens” that were launched as part of a campaign by a patriotic cultural camp to “cleanse the ranks” of national culture from people of “anti-state” beliefs. At the beginning of 2023, performances with the participation of the actress were removed from the repertoire.