Boris Ulitin, a distinguished Soviet and Russian actor known for his work in theater, cinema, and voice acting, has passed away at the age of 85. The news of his death was confirmed by the St. Petersburg Committee for Culture on January 29. Ulitin, who was awarded the title of Honored Artist of Russia in 1993, had a career spanning over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the arts.
Born into a family deeply rooted in the arts, Ulitin's father managed the Drama Theater "Na Liteinom," while his mother was a ballerina at the Mariinsky Theater. During the Siege of Leningrad, young Boris remained in the city under the care of his aunt, reuniting with his mother only in 1943. His passion for acting led him to graduate from a theater institute in 1961, after which he joined the Comedy Theater at the personal invitation of Nikolai Akimov. He remained a fixture there for nearly 60 years, with a brief stint at the Lensovet Theater from 1977 to 1982.
Ulitin's contributions to the arts were widely recognized. In addition to his stage work, he became a household name through his voice acting in iconic films such as "Star Wars," "Alien vs. Predator," and "Pirates of the Caribbean." Over his career, he lent his voice to more than 40 films and animated features, including "Amélie," "Hellboy," and "Monsters, Inc." His talent earned him numerous accolades, including the Order of Friendship in 2009.
The St. Petersburg Committee for Culture expressed deep condolences to Ulitin's family, friends, and colleagues, acknowledging his lifelong dedication to the arts. His passing marks the end of an era for Russian theater and cinema, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.