Half a century together: the love story of actors Sergei Yursky and Natalia Tenyakova

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Sergei Yursky and Natalia Tenyakova are a rare example of a couple who managed to preserve both love and creative partnership. Their union stood the test of time: they spent half a century together and often shared the stage.

Their journey began with a creative encounter that quickly grew into something more — a life together filled with care and shared performances. For the sake of love, they moved cities and started from scratch, but always remained side by side.

When Yursky faced disagreements with the leadership of the Bolshoi Drama Theatre in Leningrad and was denied roles, moving to Moscow became a way out. Tenyakova resigned from her theatre position without hesitation and followed her husband. Sergei joined the Mossovet Theatre first, and soon after, Natalia joined him there.

In the film "Love and Pigeons," they brought to the screen the very tenderness and humour that reflected their real life so well. They played the family couple Uncle Mitya and Aunt Shura — characters so beloved by audiences.

"We live our lives peacefully and even understand each other. Of course, we argue sometimes, but we don’t allow vanity to flare up. It’s all nonsense when people say that two strong personalities can’t live under one roof. If that happens, it just means they don’t love each other. Love is stronger than ambition. Besides, one must know how to forgive and sometimes even overlook the flaws of a life partner," Natalia Tenyakova said in an interview.

She also noted that the only real threat to a relationship, in her view, is boredom.

There are only 2 days left until the II All-Russian Wedding Festival "Russia. Uniting Hearts." It will take place at the National Centre RUSSIA from July 8 to 10. The love story of Yursky and Tenyakova is part of the country's cultural memory — an example and inspiration for future families. Their union proves that true love and devotion do exist.

The festival programme will include official wedding ceremonies for more than 200 couples, along with a variety of special events: concerts featuring popular artists, creative workshops led by experts from the wedding industry, gastronomic showcases, and much more.