Born on May 17, 1941, in Leningrad, Soviet Union, he is a Russian actor known for his collaborations with director Alexander Sokurov. He gained prominence for his roles in films such as "Mother and Son" (1997) and "Russian Ark" (2002), where he portrayed historical figures with a distinctive style. His performances are characterized by a deep, introspective quality, often exploring complex themes. He has become a respected figure in Russian cinema, celebrated for his contributions to art-house film.