Famous Russian Journalists

Anna Politkovskaya was a Russian investigative journalist known for her reporting on political and social events in Russia, particularly the Second Chechen War. Despite facing intimidation and violence, she persisted in covering the war for seven years. Her articles on Chechnya were turned into books multiple times, with her work mainly published in Novaya Gazeta. She received international recognition for her investigative journalism and published a book, "Putin's Russia," in 2004. Tragically, she was assassinated in 2006, sparking international attention.

Isaac Emmanuilovich Babel was a prominent Soviet writer, journalist, playwright, and literary translator. He is celebrated for his works "Red Cavalry" and "Odessa Stories," which have solidified his reputation as a significant figure in Russian literature. Babel is recognized as a masterful prose writer of Russian Jewry, showcasing a unique and powerful writing style. Unfortunately, his career was tragically cut short when he was arrested by the NKVD on false charges of terrorism and espionage, leading to his execution in 1940.

Sergei Dovlatov was a prominent Soviet journalist and writer known for his powerful and satirical works. Throughout his career, he faced censorship and suppression from Soviet authorities due to his critical views and sharp wit. Despite these challenges, Dovlatov persevered and managed to publish several works both in the Soviet Union and abroad. He gained international recognition as one of the most popular Russian writers of the late 20th century, leaving a lasting impact on literature with his unique style and insightful commentary on Soviet society.

Vladimir Vladimirovich Pozner is a renowned journalist and presenter known for representing and explaining Soviet views during the Cold War. Growing up in the United States, he is fluent in English, Russian, and French, which made him a notable spokesperson for the Soviets. He later acknowledged his role as propaganda. After the Cold War, Pozner worked in the US with Phil Donahue before returning to Moscow to continue his career as a television journalist. He hosted the show Pozner on Russia's Channel One from 2008 to 2022, where he conducted interviews with public figures.

Yuri Bezmenov was a Soviet journalist for Novosti Press Agency who later defected to the West while stationed in India as a KGB operative. He grew fond of Indian culture but became disillusioned with the Soviet regime's repression of dissenting voices. Bezmenov is renowned for his anti-Marxist, anti-Soviet, and anti-atheist lectures and publications during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. His decision to defect and subsequent work in the West shaped his legacy as a prominent critic of Soviet ideology.

Tina Kandelaki is a prominent journalist, television presenter, and producer in Russia. She has made significant contributions to the media industry through her work in various capacities. Kandelaki is also known for her role as a co-owner of the Apostol company. With a successful career spanning several years, she has established herself as a respected figure in the field, known for her expertise, professionalism, and dedication to delivering high-quality content to audiences.

Varlam Tikhonovich Shalamov was a Russian writer, journalist, poet, and Gulag survivor. He spent over a decade in forced-labor camps in the Arctic region of Kolyma due to his political beliefs. During his time in the camps, he worked as a medical assistant, a role he continued after his release. From 1954 to 1978, Shalamov wrote a collection of short stories known as Kolyma Tales, detailing his experiences in the labor camps. These stories are considered his masterpiece and offer a definitive account of life in the camps.

Masha Gessen is a prominent Russian-American journalist, author, and translator, known for their work on LGBT rights. They write in both English and Russian, contributing to various reputable publications such as The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Washington Post. Gessen is the author of several non-fiction books and has been a staff writer for The New Yorker since 2017. They also serve as an opinion columnist at The New York Times. Gessen's career is marked by a prolific output and a strong advocacy for LGBTQ+ issues.

Tatiana Sorokko is a renowned Russian-born American model, fashion journalist, and haute couture collector. She achieved international recognition as the first Russian model in the post-Soviet era to walk the runways for top designers and grace the covers of leading fashion magazines. Transitioning from modeling, she held prestigious editorial positions at Vogue, Vanity Fair, and Harper's Bazaar. Sorokko's unique personal style and her private collection of historically significant haute couture garments have been showcased in museum exhibitions in both Russia and the United States.

Nikolay Gavrilovich Chernyshevsky was a prominent Russian literary and social critic, journalist, novelist, democrat, and socialist philosopher. He was recognized as a notable utopian socialist and a key theoretician of Russian nihilism and Narodniks. Chernyshevsky played a central role in the 1860s revolutionary democratic movement in Russia, despite facing exile to Siberia later in his life. His significant contributions to socialist theory and activism earned him high praise from influential figures such as Karl Marx, Georgi Plekhanov, and Vladimir Lenin.

Dmitry Lvovich Bykov is a prominent Russian writer, poet, literary critic, and journalist known for his significant contributions to Russian literature. He has gained recognition for his biographical works on influential figures such as Boris Pasternak, Bulat Okudzhava, and Maxim Gorky. Bykov's expertise in literature and journalism has established him as a respected figure in the Russian literary community. His insightful critiques and compelling writing style have earned him a reputation as a versatile and talented professional in the field of literature.

Yury Aleksandrovich Dud is a German-born Russian journalist and YouTuber known for his informational online videos. He has been deputy director-general of the sports website Sports.ru since 2018. In 2017, Dud launched his YouTube channel, vDud, where he conducts interviews with individuals from Russia and post-Soviet states. He is one of the most popular YouTubers in Russia, with over ten million subscribers as of early 2022. Dud's series of socio-political interviews have garnered attention globally and opposition from the Russian government.

Yevgeny Khaldei was a Soviet Red Army naval officer and photographer best known for his iconic World War II photograph of a Soviet soldier raising a flag over the Reichstag in Berlin. Throughout his career, Khaldei captured powerful images that documented key moments of the war, serving as a visual historian of the Soviet Union's military efforts. His work not only showcased the bravery and resilience of Soviet soldiers but also contributed to shaping the historical narrative of World War II.

Alexander Gordon is a prominent figure in Russian media, known for his roles as a radio and television presenter, journalist, actor, and director. He has made significant contributions to the industry through his work on major channels such as "NTV" and "Channel One." Currently, he serves as the host of the popular program "Dok-Tok" on First Channel. Gordon's versatile talents and extensive experience have solidified his reputation as a respected and influential figure in the Russian media landscape.

Natalya Khusainovna Estemirova was a prominent Russian human rights activist and dedicated board member of the organization Memorial. She fearlessly worked on highly sensitive cases of human rights abuses in Chechnya, shedding light on injustices and advocating for the rights of marginalized individuals. Estemirova's commitment to her work was evident in her tireless efforts to uncover the truth and seek justice for those affected by human rights violations. Her tragic abduction and subsequent murder serve as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by activists fighting for justice and accountability.

Alexander Nevzorov is a prominent Russian and Ukrainian television journalist, film director, and former member of the Russian State Duma. He gained fame hosting the program "600 Seconds" in Leningrad, covering significant events like the coup attempt in 1991. Nevzorov reported from conflict zones during the Yugoslav Wars and the Transnistria War. He was known for his changing views on Russian imperialism, supporting the Chechen War initially but later becoming critical. Nevzorov has been involved in various media roles and political activities, including supporting and opposing Vladimir Putin.

Margarita Simonyan is a prominent Russian media executive known for her role as the editor-in-chief of the state-controlled broadcaster RT and the state-owned media group Rossiya Segodnya. She gained experience covering the Second Chechen War and has held various positions in the media industry, including working as a journalist, correspondent, and special correspondent for different news programs. Simonyan has also served on the board of directors of Channel One Russia and is a member of the Academy of Russian Television. Despite her professional achievements, she has faced sanctions for her involvement in state propaganda related to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Vladislav Listyev was a prominent journalist and media executive in Russia. He made significant contributions to the field of journalism as the head of the ORT TV Channel, which is now known as Channel One. Listyev was known for his innovative approach to television programming and his commitment to providing high-quality content to viewers. He played a key role in shaping the media landscape in Russia and his work continues to be remembered and celebrated in the industry.

Zakhar Prilepin, also known as Yevgeny Lavlinsky, is a prominent Russian writer, politician, and paramilitary leader. He was a member of Russia's National Bolshevik Party and later became the leader of the national-conservative political party For Truth, which merged into A Just Russia in 2021. Prilepin is well-known for his literary works, political activism, and leadership roles in various organizations. His career has been marked by a combination of writing, political engagement, and military leadership, making him a multifaceted and influential figure in Russian society.

Yulia Latynina is a prominent independent journalist, writer, TV, and radio host from Russia. She gained recognition for her work as a columnist for Novaya Gazeta and her role as a popular host on Echo of Moscow radio. With a prolific writing career, Latynina has authored over twenty books spanning genres such as fantasy and crime fiction. Her diverse talents have solidified her reputation as a respected figure in the media landscape, known for her insightful commentary and engaging storytelling.

Korney Chukovsky was a prominent figure in Russian literature, known for his work as a children's poet, translator, and literary critic. His engaging and imaginative poems, such as "The Monster Cockroach" and "Wash-'em-Clean," have captivated generations of Russophone children. Chukovsky's talent for crafting catchy rhythms and inventive rhymes drew comparisons to Dr. Seuss. He also translated works by notable authors like Walt Whitman and Mark Twain, and adapted stories like Doctor Dolittle into Russian. Chukovsky's influence extended beyond his poetry, as he was respected as a literary critic and essayist.

Artyom Borovik was a prominent Russian investigative journalist and media magnate, known for his impactful work in the field. He followed in the footsteps of his father, a seasoned journalist, and carved out his own successful career. Borovik's contributions to journalism were highly regarded, and he gained a reputation for his in-depth investigative reporting and commitment to uncovering the truth. Throughout his professional life, he made significant strides in the media industry, leaving a lasting legacy in Russian journalism.

Olga Ivinskaya was a prominent Soviet poet and writer, known for her close association with Nobel Prize-winning author Boris Pasternak. She played a significant role as Pasternak's muse and inspiration, particularly influencing the creation of the character Lara in his renowned novel, Doctor Zhivago. Ivinskaya's professional life was marked by her contributions to literature and her involvement in the literary circles of her time. Her work and relationship with Pasternak have left a lasting impact on Russian literature and cultural history.

Valeriya Novodvorskaya was a prominent Russian and Soviet dissident, writer, and liberal politician. She founded and chaired the Democratic Union party, advocating for democracy and human rights. Novodvorskaya was also a member of the editorial board of The New Times, where she contributed to important discussions on political and social issues. Throughout her professional life, she was known for her outspoken views and unwavering commitment to promoting liberal values and challenging authoritarianism in Russia.

Yelena Khanga is a prominent Russian journalist, television personality, and writer. She gained recognition for hosting popular television programs such as Pro eto and Printsip domino on NTV. With her engaging presence and insightful commentary, Khanga captivated audiences and established herself as a respected figure in the media industry. Her career has been marked by a dedication to delivering quality content and fostering meaningful discussions on various social and cultural issues.

Konstantin Mikhailovich Simonov was a prominent Soviet author, war poet, playwright, and wartime correspondent. He gained widespread recognition for his poignant and emotional works, particularly his famous 1941 poem "Wait for Me." Simonov's writing often focused on themes of love, war, and patriotism, reflecting the tumultuous times he lived in. As a wartime correspondent, he reported on the brutal realities of World War II, providing firsthand accounts of the heroism and sacrifices of Soviet soldiers. Simonov's literary contributions continue to be celebrated for their powerful and enduring impact.

Aleksandr Ivanovich Kuprin was a prominent Russian writer known for his impactful novels such as The Duel, Yama: The Pit, and Moloch. Throughout his professional life, he also created notable works like Olesya, Captain Ribnikov, Emerald, and The Garnet Bracelet, the latter of which was adapted into a movie in 1965. Kuprin's writing often delved into themes of human nature, society, and psychological depth, earning him a lasting legacy as a significant figure in Russian literature.

Yevgenia Albats is a prominent Russian investigative journalist, political scientist, writer, and radio host. She has a vast experience working with reputable newspapers such as Izvestia, Novaya Gazeta, and Kommersant. Albats is known for her author's program "Full Albats" on Echo of Moscow radio station, which she hosted for nearly two decades. Her expertise in political science led her to lecture on the political system of the USSR and Russia at top universities in the United States. Albats also holds a doctoral degree from Harvard University, further solidifying her reputation in the field. Currently, she serves as the chief editor of The New Times magazine.

Vladimir Galaktionovich Korolenko was a prominent writer, journalist, human rights activist, and humanitarian of Ukrainian origin in the Russian Empire. He gained recognition for his influential works, including the short novel "The Blind Musician" and a collection of short stories inspired by his time in Siberian exile. Korolenko was known for his strong criticism of the Tsarist regime and later the Bolsheviks. His professional life was marked by a commitment to social justice, human rights advocacy, and the portrayal of the struggles faced by marginalized individuals in society.

Andrei Amalrik was a prominent Soviet writer and dissident known for his influential 1970 essay, Will the Soviet Union Survive Until 1984?. He was a vocal critic of the Soviet regime, advocating for political reform and human rights. Amalrik's work gained recognition in the Western world for its bold predictions and insights into the future of the Soviet Union. Through his writings and activism, he played a significant role in shaping public discourse on political issues during his time.

Alexandra Mitroshina, also known as Sasha Mitroshina, is a prominent Russian public figure, writer, journalist, radio host, and blogger. She co-founded a social media campaign against domestic violence in Russia called "I did not want to die." Mitroshina holds degrees in journalism and communications, and has worked for Mail.Ru and Radio Moscow FM. With over four million followers on her blog, she has become a leading voice on social issues, particularly advocating for women's rights and protesting against laws decriminalizing domestic violence in Russia.

Nikolay Dobrolyubov was a Russian poet, literary critic, and journalist known for his contributions to the Russian revolutionary movement. He gained prominence for his insightful literary critiques that challenged societal norms and promoted progressive ideas. His work as a critic helped shape the course of Russian literature, earning him recognition from influential figures like Karl Marx and Lenin. Dobrolyubov's writings continue to be studied and revered for their impact on Russian literary and intellectual thought during his time.

Nikolay Ivanovich Novikov was a prominent Russian writer and philanthropist known for his contributions to the Enlightenment movement in Russia. He is recognized as one of the first Russian journalists, dedicated to advancing the cultural and educational standards of the Russian public. Novikov actively participated in legislative initiatives and played a key role in the development of journalism through editing newspapers and launching satirical journals. He also introduced martinism and rosicrucianism to Russia and became a prominent figure in Russian Freemasonry, overseeing ambitious book-publishing endeavors. Ultimately, his career was marred by political persecution and imprisonment following a change in Catherine the Great's attitude towards him.

Irina Slavina was a Russian journalist known for her work as the editor-in-chief of Koza Press in Nizhny Novgorod city. She was a prominent public and political figure who fearlessly covered important issues in her community. Throughout her career, Slavina demonstrated a deep commitment to investigative journalism and a dedication to holding those in power accountable. Her contributions to media and advocacy made her a respected and influential voice in Russia, with a lasting impact on the field of journalism.

Alexander "Alik" Ilyich Ginzburg was a prominent Russian journalist, poet, human rights activist, and dissident known for his outspoken criticism of the Soviet regime. He faced multiple sentences to labor camps for his activism between 1961 and 1969. Following his release in 1979, he was expelled to the United States as part of a prisoner exchange. Ginzburg continued his advocacy work in the US, highlighting human rights abuses in the Soviet Union and promoting freedom of expression until his passing in 2002.

Irina Mutsuovna Khakamada is a prominent Russian economist, political activist, journalist, teacher, publicist, and politician known for her contributions to Russian politics. She served as a member of the State Duma for three terms and was vice-chair of the house. Additionally, she co-chaired the political party Union of Right Forces and ran for President of the Russian Federation in 2004. Khakamada has also been recognized internationally, with Time naming her as a notable politician and being nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.

Mikhail Katkov was a prominent figure in Russian journalism and literature during the 19th century. He played a crucial role in shaping public opinion through his editorship of the influential newspaper, The Russian Messenger. Katkov was known for his conservative views and support of the autocracy, which often put him at odds with liberal intellectuals of his time. He was instrumental in promoting the works of renowned authors such as Dostoevsky and Tolstoy, contributing significantly to the development of Russian literature.

Georgy Arkadyevich Arbatov was a prominent Soviet and Russian political scientist known for his role as an adviser to five General Secretaries of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. During the Cold War era, he gained recognition in the West for representing Soviet policies in the United States, leveraging his fluent English skills to appear frequently on American television. Arbatov was the founding director and later emeritus director of the Institute of USA and Canada of the Soviet Academy of Sciences (ISKRAN), focusing on the study of US and Canada.

Alexander Nikolayevich Afanasyev was a Russian Slavist and ethnographer renowned for compiling an extensive collection of East Slavic and Russian fairy and folk tales. His work included not only Russian folklore but also stories from Ukraine and Belarus. Afanasyev's collection, published in eight volumes from 1855 to 1867, solidified his reputation as a significant figure in folklore studies. Often compared to the Brothers Grimm, he played a crucial role in preserving and popularizing traditional Slavic tales for future generations.

Viktor Grigoryevich Afanasyev was a prominent Soviet and Russian public figure, journalist, and philosophy professor known for his work in academia, politics, and media. He served as editor-in-chief of the journal Kommunist and of Pravda, a leading newspaper in the Soviet Union. Afanasyev's career faced challenges due to his critical stance towards leaders like Mikhail Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin, leading to his dismissal from Pravda. He later continued his professional endeavors at the national Academy of Sciences in Moscow.

Kronid Arkadyevich Lyubarsky was a prominent Russian journalist, dissident, human rights activist, and political prisoner. He fearlessly spoke out against the Soviet regime, advocating for freedom of speech and human rights. Despite facing persecution and imprisonment for his beliefs, Lyubarsky continued to courageously challenge the oppressive government through his writings and activism. His professional life was characterized by a steadfast commitment to truth, justice, and the promotion of democratic values in a challenging political climate.

Margarita Iosifovna Aliger was a prominent figure in Soviet and Russian literature, known for her impactful work as a poet, translator, and journalist. Throughout her career, she used her literary talents to convey powerful messages and emotions, often focusing on themes of social justice and the human experience. Aliger's works were widely acclaimed for their depth and insight, earning her a reputation as a skilled wordsmith with a keen understanding of the complexities of the world around her.

Johann Voldemar Jannsen was an influential Estonian journalist and poet known for his contributions to the Estonian National Awakening. He played a pivotal role in organizing the first nationwide Song Festival in Tartu in 1869, which had a significant impact on the cultural and national identity of Estonia. Jannsen's work as a journalist and poet, including writing the words of the national anthem of Estonia, "Mu isamaa, mu õnn ja rõõm", showcased his dedication to promoting Estonian culture and heritage.

Ilya Arnoldovich Ilf was a prominent Soviet journalist and writer known for his collaboration with Yevgeny Petrov. Together, they formed the famous duo Ilf and Petrov, producing popular comedy novels such as The Twelve Chairs and The Little Golden Calf. Their satirical work, Odnoetazhnaya Amerika (Little Golden America), detailed their travels through the United States. Ilf's professional life was marked by his sharp wit, keen observation, and ability to craft humorous and insightful narratives that captured the spirit of the time.

D. S. Mirsky, also known as Prince Mirsky, was a prominent Russian political and literary historian who played a significant role in promoting the knowledge and translations of Russian literature in the United Kingdom and English literature in the Soviet Union. He made valuable contributions to the understanding of literature and history through his scholarly work. Mirsky's expertise and passion for literature transcended borders, impacting cultural exchange between Russia and the UK. His legacy continues to influence the field of literary studies to this day.

Micha Josef Berdyczewski was a Ukraine-born writer of Hebrew, a journalist, and a scholar. He advocated for Jews to challenge traditional dogmas in religion, tradition, and history. Known for his work with pre-modern Jewish myths and legends, he wrote in Hebrew, Yiddish, and German. Berdyczewski was recognized as the first Hebrew writer in Berlin to gain acclaim in the German literary world.

Stela Popa is a prominent journalist and author based in Moldova. She has made significant contributions to the field through her work with various media outlets, including Romanian National Television, Jurnal TV, and Vocea Basarabiei. With a strong presence in both traditional and online platforms, Popa has established herself as a respected figure in the industry. Her writing and reporting have garnered attention for their insightful analysis and engaging storytelling, further solidifying her reputation as a skilled professional in the realm of journalism.