The world of entertainment has lost another one of its members. NCIS: Los Angeles actor Ravil Isyanov has passed away at the age of 59.
Per Deadline, Isyanov was suffering from a long-term illness. The outlet does not disclose what that was or the complications that led to his death. The Russian-born actor died on September 29, with news of his death first being reported on October 13.
Over the past decade, he had become a familiar face to TV fans. After bit roles in 24, Bones and Burn Notice, he had moved up to reoccurring or featured roles in shows like NCIS: Los Angeles and The Americans.
In the latter, he portrayed an interrogator, Ruslan. Isyanov appeared in six episodes of the show.
However, his work in NCIS: Los Angeles is probably where he is currently most recognized. He made his first appearance on the CBS program all the way back in 2013. He took on the role of Anatoli Kirkin, a Russian mafia boss.
As the show progressed, Kirkin’s storyline became more and more prevalent. In Season 12, it comes to a head as the show goes deep into its Russian storylines. Eventually, his character meets a fateful end but he certainly made an impact in his time on the show.
Tragically, Isyanov leaves behind his wife, Erika. He is also survived by daughter Gulya and her grandchildren Cassandra and Nikita, a sister, Dina, and his ex-wife Marsha.
From Russia to NCIS: Los Angeles
Before he became a recognizable face in the US, Isyanov was born in 1962 in Voskresensk in what was then the U.S.S.R. He was enamored with art from the early days of his youth, going to college to learn directing after finishing high school.
But before he properly got going in his entertainment career, he was drafted into mandatory service for the Soviet Union air force. He eventually got back to what he loved, and earned his way into the prestigious Moscow Arts Theatre school.
It was in 1990 that he got a role in The Russia House, his first work that made noise overseas. Afterward, he continued his career in England as he continued to find more and more success. Eventually, that led him to Los Angeles in 1998.
In the two decades and change since, Isyanov has popped up in film and TV and established a prolific career. The actor has 77 acting credits to his name.
Former ’24’ Producer Honors Isyanov After His Death
As mentioned, Isyanov found work all over the television screen. One of his first major reoccurring roles on television was on 24, where he played a henchman.
24 executive producer Jon Cassar responded to the news of his death fairly quickly, saying that his work on screen was great, but it was his actions off of it that stood out.
“I worked with Ravil Isyanov when he was on 24, he was one of #JulianSands thugs,” Cassar said. “Great actor and even nicer guy.”
