Sergei Nikonenko is a popular Russian actor and director, known for his portrayal of Russian historic characters in film and on stage, such as poet Sergei Esenin and commander Chapaev. He was born Sergei Petrovich Nikonenko on April 16, 1941, in Moscow, Russia. His father, Petr Nikanorovich, and his mother, Nina Mikhailovna, were workers at a Moscow industry. As a child, Sergei Nikonenko survived the Nazi occupation of Russia during the Second World War. Young Nikonenko was fond of Russian literature, his favorites were 'Leo Tolstoy' as a regular billiard partner. Nikonenko is also an art connoisseur and collector of Russian art. He is fond of oil painting, and specializes in painting landscapes and portraits, having his wife as his most favorite model. Sergei Nikonenko has been married to actress Ekaterina Voronina, and the couple has one son. The Nikonenkos are residing in their country home in Novoperedelkino, a suburb of Moscow, Russia.
Film director at Gorky Film Studios in Moscow, since 1973.
Awarded the Gold Medal of A. Dovzhenko for film work.
Honored Actor of Russia.
Founder of the Esenin museum in Moscow.
