Unveiling the Evolution of the Iconic Detectives in a Legendary Crime Series

Filming has commenced in Saint Petersburg for the newest season of the legendary detective series, marking its impressive continuation. Let's explore how the lives of the central actors have evolved in this gripping crime saga.

The series first premiered on September 1, 2000, introducing audiences to the daily life and personal challenges of Maria Shvetsova, a dedicated investigator in Saint Petersburg.

This series is a quintessentially Saint Petersburg story.

The city itself plays a pivotal role alongside the actors, with its shadowy courtyards, muted streets, grand embankments, and bustling avenues providing the perfect backdrop for crime scenes.

The concept originated from producer Ada Staviskaya, a lawyer by training, who was inspired after reading the documentary book "Notes of a Mad Investigator."

From the first through the eighth season, the screenplay was penned by Elena Topilskaya, a former investigator on high-profile cases and the author of the book.

To enhance authenticity, early seasons were filmed in actual morgues and prisons, though this was later discontinued. Actor Andrey Sharkov, who portrayed the forensic expert, admitted the lingering morgue scent was hard to shake off.

Remarkably, after nearly 22 years, the series remains popular and continues to captivate audiences. The upcoming season promises new high-profile cases for Maria Shvetsova (Anna Kovalchuk) and her team led by Colonel Korablev (Igor Nikolaev).

Maria will collaborate once again with her friend and fellow investigator Lyudmila Kolonkova (Olga Pavlovets) to unravel complex crimes: tracking a serial killer with seemingly unrelated victims, probing a street assault that triggers a series of mysterious deaths, and investigating a seemingly minor robbery that uncovers sinister clues. Maria's personal life also faces new dilemmas as she contemplates whether to sever ties with a loved one who made a grave mistake.

Let's delve into the journeys of the actors who have brought this enduring story to life.

Anna Kovalchuk as Maria Shvetsova

Anna Kovalchuk's portrayal of the talented and principled investigator Maria Shvetsova earned her nationwide fame and has been a cornerstone of the series' enduring appeal.

Her impressive portfolio includes notable dramas like "Admiral" and series such as "Master and Margarita," "Peter the Great: The Testament," and "Godunov," alongside acclaimed theater performances.

Kovalchuk was married twice. During the filming of the first season, she became pregnant, prompting the writers to incorporate this into the storyline. On October 26, 2000, both the actress and her character became mothers to a daughter named Zlata. Remarkably, scenes depicting Maria's labor and childbirth were authentic, shared personally by Kovalchuk. The character also named her daughter Zlata.

Fun fact: Zlata played herself in several seasons, appearing from infancy.

Following her divorce in 2005, Kovalchuk remarried businessman Oleg Kapustin in 2007, with whom she has a son, Dobrynya. Now 45, she maintains the same fresh and fit appearance as in her early detective days.

Interestingly, Kovalchuk has confessed that her investigative skills honed over two decades make watching detective shows challenging, as she often guesses the culprit early on.

Alla Dovlatova as Albina Krutitskaya

Albina, Maria's best friend and her foil, appeared mainly in the first three seasons and briefly in the seventh. Despite limited screen time, her character left a lasting impression on fans.

Alla Dovlatova, who brilliantly portrayed the cunning Albina, is now a mother of four.

She was married to Dmitry Lyuty from 1995 to 2007, with whom she has two children, Darya and Pavel. Since 2007, she has been happily married to police lieutenant colonel Alexey Boroda, with whom she has two daughters, Alexandra and Maria.

Dovlatova has shifted her focus away from acting towards a career in radio hosting, where her studio dances are a unique art form.

Sergey Baryshev as Vladimir Vinokurov

Many viewers hoped for a romantic connection between Vinokurov and Shvetsova. Sergey Baryshev's portrayal of the infatuated major won fans over, elevating his role from minor to central.

Surprisingly, Vinokurov disappeared without explanation in the 12th season.

Rumors suggest behind-the-scenes tensions over fame contributed to Baryshev's departure. Initially, the series featured relatively unknown local actors who quickly became nationwide favorites.

Baryshev, now 58, focuses on theater and his own studio, "Chudomir." He is married to journalist Ekaterina, and the couple has no children.

Miroslav Malich as Dmitry Lugansky

Vinokurov's unrequited love was overshadowed by businessman Dmitry Lugansky, played by Miroslav Malich. Maria and Dmitry married in the second season, their relationship inspiring admiration for 15 seasons.

By the 17th season, producers decided Maria's blissful life needed a dramatic turn.

The storyline introduced a murder where Dmitry was the prime suspect. Although Maria proved his innocence, their trust was irrevocably broken, leading to their separation.

Producers noted that Malich's increasing focus on directing and personal projects meant his character's exit was inevitable.

Now 62, Malich dedicates much of his time to family—his wife Ksenia, their four children, and grandchildren. Despite his artistic pursuits, he embraces everyday responsibilities like shopping and cooking.

Malich and Kovalchuk share a close friendship, extending to their families.

Emilia Spivak as Evgenia Anatolyevna

Evgenia, a trainee investigator, helped mend Vinokurov's broken heart. Initially a contentious figure, Spivak's character won over both Maria and viewers.

Her wedding to Vinokurov was an emotional highlight for fans.

However, their divorce in season eight coincided with Spivak's decision to leave the series.

Since then, Spivak married former classmate Ernest Timerkhanov, though the marriage ended after two years. At 40, she remains focused on her acting career, with notable roles in "Major 2" and "State Counselor."

Vyacheslav Zakharov as Viktor Kovin

Prosecutor Viktor Kovin, portrayed by Vyacheslav Zakharov, is another constant character throughout the series. Like Kovalchuk, Zakharov has changed little over the years.

At 78, Zakharov keeps his personal life private, with little known about his family. Since 2013, his acting has been limited to this series.

Yulia Yakovleva as Zoya Pavlovna

Viktor Kovin's loyal secretary, Zoya Pavlovna, played by Yulia Yakovleva, remains an indispensable part of the series, embodying steadfast support and dedication.

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