Oleg Borisovich Vidov's life began on June 11, 1943, in the picturesque suburbs of Moscow, Russia, where his early years were shaped by the dynamic presence of his mother, Varvara Vidova, a devoted teacher, and his father, Boris Nikolaievich Garnevich, a renowned economist. As his mother's career progressed, the family relocated frequently, allowing Oleg to experience diverse educational settings in Mongolia, East Germany, and ultimately, China.
At a remarkably youthful age of 18, Oleg's extraordinary aptitude for the performing arts earned him a coveted spot within the esteemed acting department of the renowned state film school, VGIK, where he was pitted against a staggering multitude of aspiring actors, each vying for a chance to hone their craft. This auspicious milestone marked the inception of his illustrious career, which would span an impressive duration of over five decades, featuring a remarkable 50 film appearances, with the majority of these being starring roles that showcased his remarkable range and versatility as an actor.
Oleg's captivating aura and captivating presence effortlessly transformed him into an iconic sex symbol of his era in Russia, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of his generation. To this very day, numerous films featuring this talented individual continue to captivate audiences and maintain a strong presence on Russian television, a testament to his enduring appeal. Notable among his extensive filmography are the iconic productions "Red Heat," the sultry and provocative "Wild Orchid" released in 1989, and the gripping historical drama "Thirteen Days."
Oleg, a talented individual, made the bold decision to defect to the United States in the year 1985, marking the beginning of his journey in the world of film and television.
This pivotal moment in his life was not without its significance, as it paved the way for him to collaborate with his wife in a business venture that would have far-reaching consequences. In 1992, they jointly acquired the international distribution rights to the esteemed Soyuzmultfilm Studio animation library, a renowned collection of award-winning animations.
Through their partnership, Oleg and his wife worked tirelessly to globalize Russian animation, bringing these captivating stories to a broader audience. Their efforts were rewarded with the production of numerous series, each showcasing restored animations from the Soyuzmultfilm library.
Some of the notable series they brought to life include "Animated Classic Showcase," a collection of timeless tales that have stood the test of time; "Mikhail Baryshnikov's Stories from My Childhood" (1998),a heartwarming series that has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide; "Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book," a classic tale of adventure and bravery; "Masters of Russian Animation," a celebration of the artistry and craftsmanship of Russian animators; "The Adventures of Cheburashka and Friends," a delightful series that has become a beloved favorite among children and adults alike; and "Animated Soviet Propaganda," a thought-provoking collection that offers a unique glimpse into the past.
Through their collective efforts, Oleg and his wife have made a significant impact on the world of animation, bringing joy and inspiration to audiences around the globe.
In the year 2007, Oleg, a visionary entrepreneur in the realm of animation, and his devoted wife, jointly made the momentous decision to relinquish ownership of the esteemed Soyuzmultfilm library to a prominent Russian oligarch, thereby marking the culmination of their illustrious tenure as pioneers in the animation industry, an odyssey that had spanned numerous years and had been marked by numerous triumphs and accomplishments.
