15 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Volodomyr Zelenskyy

Before 2022, not many people outside Ukraine knew much about Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, since Russia’s invasion, the Ukrainian president has been in the media spotlight on a daily basis. Initially enjoying strong international support, Zelenskyy’s popularity has waned over the past couple of years.

We took a look around the internet and discovered some facts about Ukraine’s president that you probably didn't know. Check these out:

He Voiced Paddington Bear

Zelenskyy was the Ukrainian voice actor for Paddington Bear in the Ukrainian versions of "Paddington" (2014) and "Paddington 2" (2017).

Winner of Ukraine's "Dancing with the Stars"

In 2006, Zelenskyy won the Ukrainian edition of the popular show "Dancing with the Stars."

He Spent Part of His Childhood in Mongolia

During his early childhood, Zelenskyy lived for four years in Mongolia, where his father was working.

Survived a Car Accident in 2022

In September 2022, Zelenskyy was involved in a car accident in Kyiv but fortunately escaped without serious injuries.

Co-founder of Studio Kvartal 95

He co-founded Studio Kvartal 95, a production company known for creating several popular Ukrainian TV shows, including "Servant of the People."

Political Outsider

Zelenskyy had no prior political experience before deciding to run for president in 2019.

Trained as a Lawyer

He earned a law degree from Kyiv National Economic University but never practiced law professionally.

Talented Musician and Performer

Zelenskyy has showcased his talents multiple times as a singer and musician.

Won Ukraine's Presidency by a Landslide

In 2019, Zelenskyy became president with an impressive 73.22% of the vote—one of the largest margins of victory in Ukraine’s history.

Turned Down a Scholarship in Israel

At age 16, Zelenskyy received an offer for a scholarship in Israel, but his father did not allow him to accept.

Fluent in Multiple Languages

Although his native language is Russian, Zelenskyy also speaks fluent Ukrainian and has recently learned English.

Early Success in Comedy

At just 17 years old, Zelenskyy achieved significant success in the popular improvisational comedy competition known as KVN.

From Comedian to President

Before entering politics, Zelenskyy was a very famous comedian and actor. He starred in several films and performed on some of Ukraine’s biggest stages, bringing laughter in a way no previous president ever could.

Family History During the Holocaust

Zelenskyy's family has Jewish roots, and his grandfather's father and three brothers were killed during the Holocaust. His grandfather served in the Red Army.

Advocate for LGBTQ+ Rights

Zelenskyy has publicly supported equal rights and protection under the law for the LGBTQ+ community in Ukraine.