Who voiced Matroskin the cat in the cartoon "Simpletons"?

Who voiced Matroskin the cat in the cartoon Simpletons? - briefly

In the animated series "Simpletons," Oleg Tabakov was the voice actor for the beloved character, Matroskin the cat. His performance significantly contributed to the charm and popularity of the series.

Who voiced Matroskin the cat in the cartoon Simpletons? - in detail

The iconic character Matroskin the Cat from the beloved Soviet animated series "Simpletons" (also known as "Prostokvashino") has left an indelible mark on generations of viewers. The voice that brought this cunning and resourceful feline to life was provided by Valentin Gaft, a renowned Soviet and Russian actor.

Valentin Gaft was a prominent figure in the Soviet theater and film industry. His career spanned several decades, during which he contributed to numerous stage productions and films. Gaft's distinctive voice and exceptional acting skills made him an ideal choice for voicing Matroskin. His ability to convey the cat's wit, charm, and occasional mischief endeared the character to audiences, making Matroskin a beloved figure in Soviet and Russian animation.

The original series "Simpletons" was created by Eduard Uspensky, who wrote the books on which the cartoons were based. The animated adaptations, directed by Vladimir Popov, premiered in the 1970s and quickly became a staple of Soviet children's entertainment. Gaft's performance as Matroskin was instrumental in the series' success, capturing the essence of the character as described in Uspensky's stories.

Beyond his work on "Simpletons," Gaft had a prolific career in theater and film. He was a leading actor at the Moscow Art Theatre and appeared in numerous films, including "The Irony of Fate" and "The Meeting Place Cannot Be Changed." His contributions to the arts were recognized with several awards, including the People's Artist of the USSR title.

Gaft's legacy as the voice of Matroskin continues to be celebrated. His portrayal of the character has become synonymous with the animated series, and his performance is often cited as one of the finest examples of voice acting in Soviet animation. The enduring popularity of "Simpletons" and Matroskin the Cat is a testament to Gaft's talent and the lasting impact of his work.