An artist whose songs do not age is Lev Leshchenko. His motives are sincere, sincere and warm. The singer’s path to the stage was difficult and thorny. This was reflected in his work.
Artist's family
The biography of Lev Leshchenko is a series of events that played an important role in his development as a person.
The singer’s family comes from the village of Nizy, Sumy district, Kharkov province (then moved to the village of Lyubimovka, Kursk province). The artist’s grandfather Andrei Vasilyevich Leshchenko was a gifted musician. He sang in the church choir, played the violin, and took part in performances by a group formed at the factory where he worked. It was the grandfather who laid the foundation for the creative development of his grandson. Andrei Vasilyevich was the first to notice the boy’s talent and pushed him towards a pop career. Under his guidance, Lev Leshchenko studied the first notes. The singer still remembers his grandfather with a kind word.
Father Valeryan Andreevich moved to Moscow in 1931. He worked as an accountant at a vitamin plant in Krasnaya Presnya. The war found him there. First Finnish and then World. Hero of the Great Patriotic War, he connected his entire life with military service. He began his career path as a career officer and so reached the rank of lieutenant colonel. At the same time, he had an amazing gift - any musical instrument could easily be played in his hands.
Lev Valeryanovich was born in 1942 on February 1, in Moscow, at a time when trouble was as close to home as possible.
The artist's mother died in 1943 (she died at the age of 28). In 1948, the father married for the second time, and a year after the wedding, another child appeared in the family - the younger sister Valentina.
The singer's childhood
Childhood was not sweet during the war and after its end. Everyone lived in small rooms, in cold and hunger. The biography of Lev Leshchenko also has sad pages - difficult war and post-war years. In those years, the children of soldiers were called “sons of the regiment.” Since childhood, Lev Valeryanovich was raised by the army.
When my father was not around, Sergeant Major Andrei Fisenko replaced him. The boy ate in the soldiers' canteen, wore a uniform and walked in formation. From an early age, the child was attracted to music, so Lev attended various clubs that were related to singing. He also became a frequent visitor to the class choir. The teacher noticed his talent and took the student to the radio, where he made his first recording.
Early years
After graduating from school, Leshchenko Lev Valeryanovich tried to enter a theater higher education institution, but nothing worked out for him. But the craving for art did not go away, and the young man got a job in the theater. There he did various kinds of work, but his workdays in such an atmosphere were not wasted.
The guy diligently memorized excerpts from operas in languages in which he understood nothing. Then the young man worked at a factory for some time, after which he was drafted into the army. There he returned to music again. The guy's talent was noticed by management, and he was sent to the ensemble, where he became a soloist. Already during his service, he was preparing to enter college. He succeeded, and in the second year of his studies he was invited to the Operetta Theater. There Lev received his first role, which consisted of two words. Then he began touring with concert tours.
Creative path
Since the mid-1960s, the biography of Lev Leshchenko has been inextricably linked with creativity. He becomes an artist of the Moscow Operetta Theater, and then a radio and television vocalist of the Union. His work is appreciated: the singer receives titles and awards, including Honored Artist of the RSFSR.
He had the honor of closing the 1980 Olympics, which took place in Moscow. In 1990, on his initiative, the “Music Agency” was opened, the main work of which was the organization and presentation of musical meetings. Also, the singer shares his experience with young artists. He teaches at the Music Pedagogical Institute - many representatives of modern pop music studied with him.
The biography of Lev Leshchenko is described by himself in the book “Apology for Memory”. Also on the Square of Stars, in front of the Rossiya Concert Hall, he has his own star of fame. The singer performs more than 50 songs. His work also includes more than 15 duets recorded with famous stars. Among them are Anna German, Valentina Tolkunova and Tamara Gverdtsiteli. The singer was often credited with having affairs with beautiful actresses. And yet, the title of an exemplary couple was given to Irina Bagudina and her husband Lev Leshchenko. The couple's personal life is an example to follow.
First divorce and second perfect marriage
Now Leshchenko is rightly called the most faithful husband of the stage. And it is true. The musician lived with his second wife for more than 30 years.
But his first marriage fell apart. His first wife was singer Albina Abdalova, with whom they studied together. Then Lev Leshchenko fell seriously in love for the first time. The couple did not have children, although Albina later spoke about abortion. They lived together for 10 years, after which they separated. The singer met his second wife in 1976.
The girl's name was Irina Bagudina, and the singer realized that from now on his heart belonged to this young woman. The lovers registered their relationship in 1978. Since then they have been inseparable. Even today, the artist considers her the most beautiful woman in the world. The only reason for jealousy is his work. However, this did not become a problem for the woman who gave her heart to a star named Lev Leshchenko. The couple had no children.
Songs that pass through time
It is important to note that, apparently, it is precisely because of his childhood spent under bomb explosions that the artist manages to convey the emotions of that terrible time so vividly. This is especially true for the song, which has long become an integral part of parades held in honor of May 9 - “Victory Day”. And it is impossible to imagine this song performed by another artist. It is interesting that the author of the words, Vladimir Kharitonov, did not have high hopes for the future of his work, although the composition clearly reflected the mood of everyone who was touched by the black wing of the war.
Other songs that can already be called folk have gained no less popularity: “Don’t cry, girl”, “Not a minute of peace”, “Farewell! From all train stations" and others.
Today Lev Valeryanovich Leshchenko performs at various concerts and tours around the world, delighting fans with his work.
by Notes of the Wild MistressLev LESCHENKO is rightly considered the most faithful husband of the national stage. He has been married to his wife Irina for 30 years. Few people know that his first wife was singer Albina ABDALOVA. Fortune did not smile on the talented singer of romances. She is lonely, living on a meager pension. An Express Gazeta correspondent found her. Albina Alexandrovna told what prevented the outstanding singer from becoming truly happy.
Maria SVETLOVA:
I tried to arrange a meeting with Albina Abdalova for three years. She politely refused with an iron voice. But this time something broke in her. She willingly supported the telephone conversation and unexpectedly agreed to meet.
...Trying to walk straight, she left the entrance. She was holding a photograph in her hands. “This is me in my youth. She was like this when Leva and I broke up,” she handed me the photo, as if making excuses for her current unpresentable appearance. On June 19 she turned 67 years old. Smiling guiltily, she doused me with a slight fume.
Sorry, I drank a little,” she apologized, shyly covering her mouth with her hand. - I have almost no teeth now.
Calling on the phone, I asked to visit, but Albina Aleksandrovna did not succumb to any persuasion.
“My house is a mess,” she admitted. Therefore, we had to talk in the yard, on a bench.
Leva and I lived in the next entrance, in a three-room apartment. Our first apartment is a two-room apartment in Chertanovo. From the radio committee where Leva worked, they built a cooperative. Of course, we didn’t have our own money - my sister helped. Later we moved here to Sokolniki, our friend contributed. In addition, Leva was already a laureate of the Golden Orpheus. He left me, as befits a real man - with one suitcase. Why do I need three rooms on my own? I exchanged for a two-room apartment. I wanted to show you photographs of us together - young, beautiful. But they got lost somewhere, I can’t find them. I put them away so as not to poison my soul.
Her eyes turned red, she took off her glasses and sobbed like an offended child.
When Leva left, I thought he would take our photographs as souvenirs. But no, I didn’t take a single photo.
I had to shoot a cigarette for my interlocutor. Having lit a cigarette, she calmed down a little and began to reminisce.
Love to the skies
We studied together at GITIS in the operetta department. He is two years younger, although I am a year older than Leva, he just entered after the army. The girls were delighted: what a handsome guy appeared! He also had curls. For some reason he felt shy and straightened them out. But the fact that he had a lisp - he didn’t have complexes and didn’t work with speech therapists. I thought he was good anyway.
One day Leva looked into the dance class. I look - he is looking at me point blank. I'm not timid. After class she came up and asked: “What’s the matter?” He replied that I looked a lot like his niece. I was not at a loss: “Let’s take her to her and show her, I’ll see if you’re lying.” We arrived in Khimki, to his home. And for sure: I am the spitting image of my niece!
Levi's stepmother took our visit very seriously; she decided that since Lyova had brought home a girl, that meant he was a bride.
One day I come to class, and he’s standing outside the classroom with a bouquet of daisies,” Abdalova continues. - It’s my birthday. And of all the flowers, I love daisies. He took me by the arm and led me into the front garden of GITIS. He sat him down on a bench and took out a bottle of wine. Then the guys ran to the store... I still can’t stand sweet wine. By the way, when visiting I always had to drink for two. Leva takes a sip, and his diction becomes so loud that you can’t understand anything, just hissing.
Since then, Leva and Alla walked each other home after classes. First he takes her to Karbyshev Boulevard, then she takes him to the Voikovskaya metro station. Then again he is hers.
Somehow we got so carried away that it was too late for Alla to return. He invited the girl to spend the night with him.
He said: “Don’t think anything bad: I have dad, mom and sister at home.” The family, of course, was fast asleep. Then he asked me: “Al, is this really our first time?” And I was fooling around, no, I don’t remember something.
Was this your first love as an adult?
No, before Leva I had men, and Leva had women. Before registration, we lived with him for seven years. We met secretly - either at my sister's or at his parents'. Leva once told me: “We never slept with you except in heaven!” That is, everywhere!
It is truly a miracle if you are attracted to a man at any moment... even at the wrong time! There are people around, but I feel: he wants. And he should get it. And I want this too. That is, we are tuned in to the same wavelength... - Albina Alexandrovna took a deep drag on her cigarette and sighed: - After Lyova, I didn’t allow myself anything like that. After all, you can only lose your head with the man you love.
Failed father
Once Lev Valerianovich complained that he did not have the opportunity to raise children. You didn't give birth. The second time he married a woman younger than himself. And this marriage is also barren...
If you are hinting that something is wrong with Lev Valerianovich, then you are mistaken! He's doing well with this. And I was not infertile; he had to have several abortions.
Yes, he sometimes said that we should have children. But in reality everything turned out differently. Having become pregnant, I thought for a long time what to do. I was haunted by doubts whether we would continue to be together. I asked him: “Do you love me? If yes, then I’ll give birth.” He didn’t answer me. So I went to the midwife. Another time I got pregnant again, I asked him again what to do. But he has no time for that. He came from Japan, he had impressions... He muttered something like, do as you please. Out of stupidity, perhaps, I asked the doctor who was scraped out of me. She says: "Boy." I didn’t even tell my husband that we would have a son. Then I went for abortions without consultation. One day, after an operation, a doctor told me: “Alla, you could have two great boys. Twins". I felt like I was scalded. I barely made it home. I come and see: Leva is lounging in a chair, chatting on the phone with Slava Dobrynin. And Slava, I’ll tell you, is one of those ladies’ men. I hear them agreeing to go out with the girls. And Leva smiles as if nothing had happened, and also asks me: “What are you doing, old woman?” I answered him: “Do what you want.” But in general, Lyova was not a lover, I never caught him with anyone. Before Irina, his current wife, he never cheated on me with anyone. He's a decent person.
Attractive man
Many women liked Leva, but not only women,” Abdalova laughed good-naturedly, remembering the funny story.
1972 was a real breakthrough for Lev Leshchenko. He won the Golden Orpheus in Bulgaria, then received an invitation to participate in a competition in Sopot, Poland.
Alla and Leva lived poorly. Lev Valerianovich did not have suitable clothes. Someone advised me to contact fashion designer Vyacheslav Zaitsev. The couturier invited the singer to come to the studio for a fitting.
Have you noticed that Lev Valerianovich has such an ass... well, not quite like a man should. In general, it’s a homosexual’s dream,” Abdalova giggles kindly. - The first time he was caught by homosexuals was in the toilet near the operetta theater. I saw my man fly out of the latrine all white: “I almost killed myself!” I ask: “A fagot, or what?” And I joke: “It’s no surprise, your butt is wow, I don’t have one like that.” So the fashion designer also appreciated it. Leva persuaded me to go together, he always insisted that I be present during his business conversations, because he is shy. But I didn’t agree that time. And then I see: the husband jumps out from Zaitsev, trembling with indignation. He immediately declares to me: “I won’t go to him again!”
Leshchenko had to go to Sopot in his wife’s trouser ensemble. Red wool double-breasted suit with elasticated pants. According to Abdalova, it still hangs in her closet at home as a memory.
Edita Piekha couldn’t resist and quipped, what did Lyovochka wear? And I answered: “In your negligee, Edita Stanislavovna!” - Abdalova laughs.
Even after two victories at prestigious festivals in the Soviet years, Leshchenko was not at all torn apart by the concert organizers. Abdalova, according to her, tried to help her husband, using her connections. And, as Abdalova says, he even sang the signature song “Victory Day” with her help.
Mark Fradkin and his wife treated me very cordially. I often visited their house and tried to take Leva with me. One day Mark called David Tukhmanov and recommended Leva to him as a performer. David brought "Victory Day". Leva didn’t like the song at first. I felt: this is what I need. He winced, but I managed to convince him.
Gave it up without a fight
Albina Alexandrovna fell silent and picked up the bouquet of flowers that I gave her.
These are the ones Leva gave me. I always believed him. And he deceived me. I immediately felt that he had a woman on his side and said: “I need all of you. Once you have someone else, leave.” And then she filed for divorce. He himself would never have decided to break up. What a fool she was!
He said that a friend was going to introduce him to Irina, his current wife, but fate got ahead of him: they accidentally collided in the elevator. I know this friend. This is Fima Zuperman. In those years he was a famous card sharper. Fima led a nocturnal lifestyle. He dropped into our house in the evening and sat until the morning. I couldn’t stand it, I drove everyone away, because Leva was either going to a recording session or a concert in the morning, and he didn’t get enough sleep. Fima got angry and somehow threatened: “You don’t like my company, so I’ll divorce you from Leva.” And he got divorced. He specially arranged everything, brought Leva and Irina together. But Leva was unable to give birth to children... And despite everything, I still love Leva and wish him only happiness.
Abdalova has not seen Lev Leshchenko for more than 30 years, since they broke up. Even on TV. She doesn't have one. She receives a small pension. Therefore, he earns money by singing in churches.
I walked Albina Alexandrovna to the entrance. In parting she said:
Call me tomorrow please. Otherwise, no one calls me except my sister.
REFERENCE
* Albina ABDALOVA was born on June 19, 1941, a singer of romances. She sang in Leonid Utesov's orchestra. Together with Lev Leshchenko she recorded the songs “Old Maple”, “Song of Young Neighbors”, and a song for the film “Yurkin Dawns”. She worked at Mosconcert and is now retired.
* Lev LESCHENKO was born on February 1, 1942. Since 1970, the soloist of the State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company, after victories at the Golden Orpheus and in Sopot - laureate of the Lenin Komsomol Prize, since 1983 - People's Artist of the RSFSR, performer of many dozens of hits that have become classics of the national stage.
* Irina LESCHENKO (BAGUDINA) was born on May 15, 1954. Lev Valerianovich met her in 1976 in Sochi, where he was touring and Irina was on vacation. She is the daughter of diplomats and graduated from the University of Budapest. They got married in 1978. There are no children in the marriage.
Approved by Vyacheslav Dobrynin
- says Vyacheslav Dobrynin
On February 1, Lev LESCHENKO celebrated his 73rd birthday. Unfortunately, the Entveshniks ruined his mood before the holiday: they showed him the scandalous memories of his first wife. It is noteworthy that almost seven years ago, Express Gazeta was the first to find Alla ABDALOVA and she shared with our readers the piquant details of her intimate life with the singer. The TV people have now presented this entire story as their exclusive. Although many of the facts in Alla’s current story do not correspond to reality.
The Leshchenko spouses were offended not even by this, but by the fact that journalists, introducing themselves as Channel One’s Good Morning, came to their house supposedly to record a story about how they were celebrating the New Year. But they broadcast a bad editing, using seemingly innocent material for their own not so good purposes.
Mistress Abdalova doesn’t feel deceived, but friends Lev Leshchenko they are indignant: there are a lot of lies in these drunken (Alla was drinking wine in the shot) memories! For example, a pensioner said that Lev forced her to have abortions and at first avoided communicating with Vinokur(he didn’t even want to answer phone calls, he lied that he wasn’t at home). And it was only thanks to her that the friendship worked out. And so strong too.
- Complete nonsense! - Vladimir Natanovich does not hold back his emotions. - Leva and I began to be friends much earlier than I even knew about her existence. But she can be forgiven. In general, I treat her normally - she is an unhappy, lonely woman. But I am against believing the words of this sick man. Lev Valeryanovich has so much merit to the state that, in pursuit of ratings, our television programs have absolutely no need to offend the feelings of a person of such rank and unquestioningly believe the words of a woman who is clearly not herself.The program stated that the song “Victory Day” became popular precisely thanks to Alla, who made him a star, I remind Vinokur.
Lord, what are you talking about! Yes, indeed, at first they didn’t want to put “Victory Day” on the radio and put it in rotation, because the artistic council believed that a song on such an important topic could not be march-like. I remember how much the composer was worried about this David Tukhmanov and Leva, its first performer. And when, nevertheless, on the eve of November 10 - Police Day - Leva showed it at a rehearsal, the then Minister of Internal Affairs Shchelokov exclaimed: “A wonderful song! We should definitely include it in the concert program!” And she immediately became super popular. That's the whole story. Well, tell me, what does Alla or anyone else from his close circle have to do with it?!
- Well, everything is clear with Alla. How did it happen that the TV crew tricked them into your friend’s house?Well, Leva is simply a very intelligent person who cannot refuse people. This intelligence and gullibility of his became the reason for pure provocation. Of course, Leo was very upset when he realized that he had been treated like a child. Thank you for not bothering him with calls on this topic. So I always check documents before letting a person into my home or office - you never know why he came. But I also didn’t come to this right away, but after several deceptions.
I can imagine how offended Lev Valeryanovich’s wife was: not only did the shameless TV people tell big lies, but they also inserted Abdalova’s absurd revelations into the program. Allegedly, Irina Lev was specially “planted” into bed by administrator Efim Zuperman in order to annoy her, Alla!
Of course this is not true! How was it even possible to broadcast something like this?! Irochka is a wonderful woman, smart, Leva is truly happy with her. Why go far, you can Glory to Dobrynin call - he just witnessed their acquaintance.
I was very surprised when the name was mentioned in the program Zuperman, - Vyacheslav Grigorievich admitted to me. - I won’t lie, I knew this man, but he had nothing to do with Leva and Ira’s acquaintance. Leva saw Irochka in Sochi and fell in love with her at first sight! I assure you, no one framed anyone!
I, too, am extremely outraged by the TV show shown - at least write letters of protest! Didn’t you feel that Alla Abdalova was already in a state of insanity?! This is a man who has moved away from everything. She lives not even with memories, but with some kind of effort on what to say. She is simply an unhealthy person, so on her part this is not even intentional deception, but impotence. Everything that Alla says needs to be questioned, and this is a question more likely for medicine than for any other organs. For example, an unhealthy person walks down the street and shouts slogans - it turns out that everything he shouts should be taken at face value?Chamomiles and wine
Our correspondent Maria SVETLOVA found Lev Leshchenko’s first wife 10 years ago and spent three years persuading her to meet. Alla Alexandrovna did not want to stir up the past. But at some point I made up my mind. Carefully, weighing every word, she opened her soul, afraid to say too much. I got the impression that it was very painful, there was a lot of resentment inside and I just wanted to cry. Below are excerpts from that interview. Read it and you will understand: there is almost nothing in common with what you saw on NTV.
Leva and I studied at GITIS in the operetta department. All our girls were delighted with him. He also had curls. For some reason he felt shy and straightened them out. But regarding the fact that he had a lisp, he didn’t have any complexes and didn’t work with speech therapists. I thought he was good anyway.
One day Leva looked into the dance class. I look - he is looking at me point blank. I'm not timid. After class she came up and asked: “What’s the matter?” He replied that I looked a lot like his niece. I was not at a loss: “Let’s take her to her and show her, I’ll see if you’re lying.” We arrived in Khimki, to his home. And for sure: I am the spitting image of my niece!Levi's stepmother took our visit very seriously and decided: since Leva brought home a girl, that means he is a bride.
One day I come to class, and he’s standing outside the classroom with a bouquet of daisies. He took me by the arm and led me into the front garden of GITIS. He sat him down on a bench and took out a bottle of wine. Then the guys ran to the store... I still can’t stand sweet wine. By the way, when visiting I always had to drink for two. Leva takes a sip a little, and his diction becomes such that you can’t make out anything - just hissing.
They became friends. And after some time, Leva offered to spend the night with him. He said: “Don’t think anything bad: I have dad, mom and sister at home.” The family, of course, was fast asleep. And we... Then he asked me: “Al, is it really our first time?” And I was fooling around, no, I don’t remember something. Before registration, we lived with him for several years. We met secretly - either at my sister's or at his parents'. Leva once told me: “We never slept with you except in heaven!” That is, everywhere!
Yes, he sometimes said that we should have children. But, having become pregnant, I thought for a long time what to do. I was haunted by doubts whether we would continue to be together. I asked him: “Do you love me? If yes, then I’ll give birth.” He didn’t answer me. So I went to the midwife. Another time I got pregnant again, I asked him again what to do. But Leva has no time for that. He came from Japan, he had impressions... He muttered something like do as you please. Out of stupidity, perhaps, I asked the doctor who was scraped out of me. She says: "Boy." I didn’t even tell my husband that we would have a son. Then I went for abortions without consultation. One day, after an operation, a doctor told me: “Alla, you could have two great boys. Twins". I was scalded...Well, then somehow everything went downhill. Lev met Ira and fell in love. I didn’t hold back, I filed for divorce myself. A couple of years later, she and Irina got married. But I never got married again... And, you know, in spite of everything, I still love Leva and wish him only happiness.
Lev and Irina Leshchenko are rightfully considered one of the strongest couples in Russian show business. They have been together for 36 years. But not everyone knows that before this marriage, Lev Valeryanovich was already married. And now his wife drags out a miserable existence, blaming him, her ex-husband, for all the troubles.
Their duet “Old Maple” is still remembered by especially devoted music lovers. Alla Abdalova and Lev Leshchenko are a unique tandem that existed not only on the stage, but also in real life.
Alla (or Albina) Abdalova graduated from GITIS. There she, a student of the great Maria Maksakova, was one of the most talented students in the operetta department. Her future husband Lev Leshchenko also studied at GITIS, two years younger.
True, he drew attention to Abdalova not at all within the walls of his alma mater. One day, both Alla and Leo were invited to perform in a concert dedicated to the November revolutionary holidays. It was there, seeing Abdalova’s performance from behind the scenes, that Leshchenko was struck on the spot. Her amazing gray eyes, slender figure, some kind of non-Soviet elegance. But the main thing is a low mezzo-soprano with an amazing timbre.
What, don't you know her? - his classmates shrugged their shoulders when he began to ask everything about this mysterious girl. - Alla Abdalova. Our pride and hope.
Since then, Lev tried to court the talented student. Either he will watch for her after class, or he will accidentally meet her behind the scenes. However, by that time Alla herself was not averse to striking up a close acquaintance with Leshchenko - after all, he was considered, as she later recalled, an eligible bachelor. Incredibly attractive and promising, the meetings almost all the girls at GITIS dreamed of.
JEALOUSY
At first, Leshchenko and Abdalova simply walked along the streets. Then they began to live together. Two years later, when Alla was already in her fifth year and preparing to receive her diploma, they decided to get married.
The wedding, although a student one, was nevertheless very magnificent. There were 40 guests, and the celebrations themselves lasted two days. The groom was, as expected, in a festive suit. The bride is wearing a white dress, which was sent to her all the way from abroad (Albina’s sister, being married to a counselor at the Soviet embassy, lived in Great Britain).
At first, everything turned out just fine for the young people. Although they had to live with Lev Leshchenko’s parents, this did not upset them at all, because both were full of plans for the future. After graduating from the institute, Albina was accepted into the troupe of the Operetta Theater, where her husband had worked since his student days. There they worked together for the first time, performing many duets. Then Alla was invited to work for Leonid Utesov. And Lev continued to work at the Operetta Theater, only after a while moving to serve at the State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company.
A few years later, the couple moved into their own apartment. However, left alone, without the constant presence of relatives, for some reason they began to move further and further away from each other. There were several reasons. Firstly, their work schedules chronically did not coincide: when one returned from tour, the other was just packing his bags. Therefore, they met less and less often, even though they lived in the same apartment. Not the best option for a young family...
Well, plus everything, jealousy intervened in their relationship. Yes, not ordinary, but creative. While Leshchenko’s career was quite successful, Alla, for whom everyone at GITIS predicted a brilliant future, could not find that very note of hers that would allow her to move from an ordinary singer to the category of stars. Therefore, Abdalova perceived any success of her husband almost as a personal insult. In those years, Lev, as he admitted later, often recalled the words of Anna Matyushina, his teacher at GITIS: “Never marry an artist. A struggle of ambitions, squabbles, conflicts, scandals will begin.”
A HOLIDAY ROMANCE
Although officially Leshchenko and Abdalova continued to be considered husband and wife, it would be a stretch to call their coexistence a full-fledged family. And it was then, during a summer tour in Sochi, that Lev Leshchenko met the one whom he would later call the main woman of his life. A young student Irina Bagudina studied as an exchange student in Hungary, and came to the resort of Sochi during the holidays. Since she had been living in Budapest for almost four years, she had no idea about the existence of singer Lev Leshchenko. But I saw the eyes of my new acquaintance, which were so open to the world that I wanted to immediately look at this world with him.
Although Leshchenko’s wife was waiting in Moscow, and Irina was having a rather serious affair in Hungary at that time, they both forgot about everything then, rushing headlong into a new relationship, like into a pool. “We seemed to be floating above the situation then,” Irina will say later.
During the days that both were in Sochi, they practically never separated. And even when they returned to Moscow, Lev did not go home at all - to his legal (for now) wife - but to his new acquaintance. They spent almost a week together - until the end of Irina's student holidays.
Only when Leshchenko put his beloved on a plane to Budapest did he finally show up with his wife. Which by that time, of course, realized that her husband had an affair on the side. In response, she simply put two suitcases with his things in the corridor.
“Thank you very much for avoiding scandals. “All the best to you,” with these words Leshchenko took his suitcases and left for another life. At first he lived with his parents, later, when Irina graduated from her studies and returned to Moscow, he moved with her to a rented apartment. And since then he never tires of repeating how lucky he was to meet such a woman in his life.
Irina sacrificed her profession for the sake of her husband - even though she studied abroad. She, who was destined for a career as an economist, chose to simply be the wife of her loved one.
The only thing that darkened their marriage all these years was the lack of children. Only recently Irina admitted that she had devoted more than ten years to solving this problem. But it didn’t happen. And only the singer’s ex-wife, Alla Abdalova, believes that in this way life itself takes revenge on Leshchenko for her unfulfilled fate and her unborn children.
CONTINUOUS RECOGNITIONS
We tried to contact her many times. Alla-Albina’s home phone was silent for almost six months, although we called her almost every day. I had to go to her house and try to meet in person. However, there was no full-fledged conversation - only reproaches against the ex-husband...
As you know, in any divorce, both spouses are always to blame. Apparently, the marriage of famous singers was already on its last legs at the time Leshchenko met his second wife. Yes, and Alla could not restrain her husband, giving vent to her emotions. In any case, even she herself admits today that it was possible to save their union. According to Abdalova, her former husband is an indecisive and even cowardly person. Who knows: if she had not put the suitcases with his things out the door and filed for divorce, this holiday romance would have ended on its own. But everything happened the way it happened.
However, after the official divorce, Lev Leshchenko behaved absolutely like a man. He did not divide the property through the court. After the divorce, Abdalova got a large three-room apartment in a good area of Moscow, and they shared a car. Also, the ex-husband offered any help - be it material or moral. However, Alla, full of grievances, did not even want to listen to him. And soon their communication stopped completely.
It happens that a divorce, even a very painful one, becomes a kind of launching pad for abandoned women - “I’ll prove to my ex how wrong he was.” However, Albina was simply broken by the separation from her husband. Her career declined rather quickly. She never married again. But she began to touch the bottle more and more often. And today he drags out a truly miserable existence, receiving an almost beggarly pension.
In a conversation with her, you understand that she is still living in the past, blaming her ex-husband for all her troubles. “I could have given birth to four children, two of them were twin boys. But Levushka didn’t want children, so I had abortions,” says the woman. The whole conversation revolves around this slippery topic. But she basically doesn’t want to talk about what Alla has been doing all these long 30-odd years after breaking up with Leshchenko. She just repeats what a wonderful couple they were, how Levushka loved her. And he assures - it seems more to himself - that he will definitely return to her someday...
LESCHENKO ABOUT HER FIRST WIFE: “I AM SINCERELY SORRY FOR HER”
I think that if she had not spent her life on some abnormal things - in terms of health, first of all - she could well have saved herself... In fact, I have not seen her for 40 years. The fact is that She is a proud person and... quite aggressive in some ways. She categorically refused all my help, although it would not have been difficult for me to help her in any way. But when a person is so aggressive... And specifically towards our relationship, not towards me. Because she didn’t say anything bad about me, thank God. But as far as relationships go, yes: she thinks that I did the wrong thing, and probably can’t forgive me for that. I think she has this resentment for the rest of her life, so, of course, I sincerely feel sorry for her. She was a good singer and could have made a career. But there were some complexes, obviously, she closed herself off, and now it’s very difficult for us to communicate. Nevertheless, I have absolutely bright feelings about our youth, everything was wonderful, and this is a part of my life that I do not reject.
Photo from the family archive
This beautiful woman is the most mysterious other half of a Russian pop star. She has never been a regular character in gossip columns, does not appear at celebrity parties and almost never gives interviews. She does not like publicity, most often being closed from prying eyes. She likes to observe rather than participate. But at the same time, she has been the wife of the nightingale of the Russian stage, Lev Leshchenko, for more than 35 years. So, let’s meet - Irina Leshchenko.
Childhood and family ties
Little Irinka was born in 1954 into a family of diplomats. Her grandmother was Greek. It was she who inherited her amazingly beautiful daughter with big, sad eyes. But the girl found out about this already as a schoolgirl. It was a family secret, because her dad was a Soviet diplomat, and at that time foreign relatives were not welcome. If information about this had leaked out, Dad’s career would have ended, and the whole family would have had no future. Therefore, for many years the whole family lived in nervous tension.
Family tree
Irina's parents came from simple large peasant families. These were, as they were called, the “rural intelligentsia.” They left their relatives quite early to get an education. They met at the Institute of Steel and Alloys. And after receiving their diplomas, the couple was sent to Sverdlovsk, where Kaleria Gavrilovna, Ira’s mother, welded steel. A few years later, Ira’s dad went to study in Moscow. When a daughter appeared in the family, dad was sent to the Berlin trade mission. Irinka just turned three months old. The family lived in Germany for five years. For the girl, it was a time of round-the-clock happiness, because her mother was constantly nearby; she did not work in those years, raising her daughter.
The future Irina, who has been interested in fans of her husband’s talent for many years, was fond of mathematics, an interest in which her mother instilled in her. First she learned to count, and then to write. Harmonious relationships reigned in the family, and great love was constantly felt.
Parental education
Irina Leshchenko received a very strict upbringing as a child. During her youth, there was a belief that affection could spoil a growing child. Ira, as a teenager, quite sincerely believed that she was very ugly, because she had dark skin (like her Greek grandmother). And at school, relations with classmates were not very optimistic. The guys could not forgive Ira the beautiful things that dad brought her from abroad. She did not feel comfortable among her peers.
It was her parents who chose a profession for Irina. Irina Leshchenko, whose photos have graced the pages of glossy publications in recent years, was still Bagudina at that time, and began studying the economics of foreign countries at Moscow State University. True, she sewed well and was sure that she would become an excellent fashion designer. Since Irina Leshchenko chose second during her studies at the university, she went to Budapest for an internship. It was the first time in her life that she had gone so far from her family.
Breath of air
In Soviet times, ideas about this country were very modest. The students' knowledge of the language practically did not go beyond the old Hungarian textbook, which was created for military translators. It suggested words, for example, “drink”, “grub”. And instead of the usual “hello”, one should greet the interlocutor with the call: “Freedom, comrade!” It was with this baggage that Irina Bagudina found herself abroad.
Despite such things that seem ridiculous to the modern eye, for the girl it was a new life, a kind of breath of freedom. Like other international relations students, she was assigned to the embassy. All the guys were constantly checked, they were suspected, and if they found those allegedly guilty, they were expelled. But it was here, abroad, living in such unusual conditions, that Ira felt independence and responsibility for her life.
“Who came to us?!”
Irina’s acquaintance with her future husband, Lev Leshchenko, took place completely unexpectedly. The girl had a vacation, which she spent in Sochi, staying at the Zhemchuzhina hotel. One day she and her friend were walking through the hotel lobby when this friend excitedly said to her: “Oh, who came to us? This is Lev Leshchenko!” Following her friend’s gaze, Irina saw an interesting person who was just checking into this hotel. She was one of the few who did not know the singer, and his name meant nothing to Irina. By that time, Lev Valeryanovich had already performed several of his hits.
The singer drew attention to the pretty girl, her outfit and the decoration in her hair were clearly not of Soviet origin. In addition, he was surprised and even a little hurt that she did not recognize him and looked at him without admiration. By the way, a little later, when they started visiting restaurants, the girl was surprised that there her new acquaintance was greeted like family. Lev Leshchenko and Irina Leshchenko met in the elevator of that same hotel, but none of them thought that the holiday romance that began so suddenly could have such a long and happy continuation. She still had a beloved man in Hungary. He had a long-term marriage behind him.
The origin of feelings
Despite the fact that Irina immediately made a strong impression on the singer, at first he was worried: what if this was some kind of recruitment operation, because the girl’s clothes were foreign, and in the toilet room all the creams and shampoos were entirely imported. But then she said that she was studying abroad.
Irina Leshchenko, whose love story amazes with its beauty and simplicity, immediately trusted her new friend. She was then 22 years old, and he was already 34. She still remembers that somehow a feeling of warmth and security immediately arose. He was so different from other young people - boorish and rude, who did not know how to look after someone beautifully.
And yet, Irina flew away without saying goodbye, without leaving him any of her coordinates. She was sad that she would have to spend the rest of the holidays in her parents' empty apartment. But Irina’s friend invited her to stay with her for a few days before leaving for Budepasht. The very next day after she moved in, her Leo stood on the threshold of this apartment, who came to this friend in the hope of meeting Irina there.
Moscow holidays
They spent only three days together - “a crazy Moscow vacation.” There were walks around evening Moscow, trips to restaurants... And then Irina had to return to Budapest.
Lev Leshchenko was already married at the time he met Irina. His first wife was a singer and theater actress. It was a student marriage; they studied together at GITIS. Now, when Irina Leshchenko is asked questions about this, she replies that she knew about her husband’s marriage at that time, but did not feel any concern about it, because since he met her, it means that everything had already gone wrong there. By the way, after the start of their relationship, Lev Leshchenko left his first wife and moved in with his parents.
Their next meeting took place only six months later, when Irina arrived in Moscow. From her Sochi friend she learned that Lev was now also in Moscow and was looking for her. Irina allowed her friend to give Lev Valerianovich her phone number.
He called very quickly. From that moment they were always in touch. Leshchenko called his beloved in Budapest and sent her long letters full of tenderness. Irina answered him the same.
Irina's only marriage
Thus passed the months of their “telephone love.” As a result, Lev Valerianovich said 13 thousand rubles (at that time this was the cost of the Volga).
The wedding took place after Irina returned home, in 1978. The girl always dreamed of getting married once and for all. And so it happened.
Their family life started out rather difficult. The newlyweds first rented a room and then bought a cooperative apartment. Irina Leshchenko began arranging a family home. She learned to cook deliciously, sewed curtains herself, and made the house cozy. Gradually, everything began to improve in their home. Irina entered graduate school, even passed. And suddenly the biggest misfortune in her life happens to her - she ends up in the hospital. She had to undergo treatment for a very long time, then get out of this difficult psychological state, and then undergo treatment again. But everything didn't go as planned.
Alas, Irina Pavlovna has something to regret. After all, many women truly find themselves only after they become mothers. Like, for example, the popular blogger and founder of the educational project for children and adults “Big Turtle”, Irina Pavlovna’s namesake - Irina Shalimova. Leshchenko Irina, unfortunately, was deprived of the happiness of motherhood. Her dream never came true.
Irina Leshchenko, the wife of Lev Leshchenko, was unable to give birth to a baby due to health problems. The couple did not give up, fought for twelve long years, and went to doctors. The husband behaved perfectly, just as Irina had never hoped. He constantly supported her and persuaded her not to rush and to gain strength herself to begin with. All possible treatments and procedures have been tried. But, unfortunately, they did not bring the desired result.
Irina Leshchenko, a biography whose children (unborn, unfortunately) often arouse increased interest among curious ordinary people, did not give up. She realized herself differently. Irina always tries to be close to her husband, remaining for many years his support and support. At the beginning of their marriage, she went on tour with him, replacing the costume designer. Later, speaking two foreign languages and having a university diploma, she stopped thinking about creating her own career and disappeared into her husband.
The secret to a happy family life
Time passed, and gradually everything began to improve. A new period began in Leshchenko’s work. In 1990, he created and became the head of the musical agency theater.
Today, when their marriage spans over three decades, Irina says that her husband has never reproached her for anything in all this time. And Lev Leshchenko himself once told in an interview the secret of a happy family life: never humiliate your spouse and never spend vacations apart.
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