Yakov Smirnoff

Yakov Smirnoff is a legend in American comedy. After escaping the communist Soviet Union in 1977, he arrived in the United States with nothing but a dream. Starting as a bartender in New Yorks Catskill Mountains, Yakov began telling jokes to customers before even learning English. His charm and perspective as a grateful immigrant quickly won over audiences, leading him to Hollywood where his career took off. He became a favorite on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, starred on the hit sitcom Night Court, and headlined his own series, What a Country. On the big screen, Yakov appeared alongside stars such as Tom Hanks, Robin Williams, Richard Pryor, Meryl Streep, and Jack Nicholson. His PBS special Happily Ever Laughter was voted Best Special in 2016 and 2017, and he has performed for four U.S. presidents.