French actor Gérard Depardieu, known for his legendary film career and his controversial decision to obtain Russian citizenship, was officially recognized as a victim of the COVID-19 pandemic’s economic impact in Novosibirsk, Russia. As an individual entrepreneur, this status would have allowed him to receive state support, including tax deferrals. However, it was revealed that Depardieu ultimately did not require such assistance.
Depardieu’s Business Ventures in Russia
Depardieu, who became a Russian citizen in 2013, has been involved in various business activities within the country, particularly in the arts and entertainment sectors. In Novosibirsk, he was registered as an individual entrepreneur (IE), a legal status that allows self-employed individuals to conduct business operations. His business classification under the All-Russian Classifier of Economic Activities (OKVED) fell under the category of “Creative Activities in the Arts and Entertainment Organization.”
According to Russian law, businesses and entrepreneurs categorized under industries severely affected by the pandemic were eligible for government aid. This included tax deferrals, financial support, and other relief measures. Given his OKVED classification, Depardieu was recognized as someone whose business operations were impacted by the pandemic.
Eligibility for Government Support
Yuri Mosman, Depardieu’s legal representative in Russia, confirmed to NGS that the actor had the right to claim state support.
“As an individual entrepreneur, he does have the right to apply for state assistance,” Mosman stated. “His registered OKVED falls under an affected industry, which means he could qualify for financial relief. Specifically, his classification includes ‘Creative Activities in the Arts and Entertainment Organization.’”
This status meant that Depardieu could request tax deferrals and other economic benefits extended to businesses struggling due to the pandemic. However, despite being officially recognized as an entrepreneur impacted by COVID-19, he did not make use of the support available to him.
Why Did Depardieu Decline the Assistance?
Despite being entitled to pandemic-related relief, Depardieu reportedly did not require the financial aid offered by the Russian government. His reasons for declining the assistance were not explicitly detailed, but there are several possible explanations.
Strong Financial Standing
As an internationally renowned actor with a long career in cinema, Depardieu likely has sufficient financial resources to weather the challenges posed by the pandemic. Unlike many small business owners who faced severe losses, his wealth and diverse investments may have provided him with stability.Limited Business Activity in Russia
While Depardieu was registered as an individual entrepreneur in Novosibirsk, there is little public information about the extent of his business activities in the city. It is possible that his operations in Russia were not significant enough to warrant financial relief.Political and Public Image Considerations
Depardieu’s business and political decisions have often been met with scrutiny, both in France and Russia. Accepting government aid might have sparked public debate or criticism, leading him to avoid any potential controversy.
Depardieu’s Relationship with Russia
Depardieu’s connection with Russia dates back to 2013 when he renounced his French citizenship and received a Russian passport from President Vladimir Putin. This decision came after he openly criticized France’s high tax rates and sought a more favorable business and tax environment. Since then, he has actively engaged with Russia’s cultural and political landscape, frequently praising the country and its leadership.
Over the years, he has been involved in various projects, including film and theater performances, as well as reported business ventures in hospitality and winemaking. His presence in Russia remains notable, although his exact level of business activity is not always clear.
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Arts and Entertainment Industry
The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating effect on the arts and entertainment industry worldwide, and Russia was no exception. The lockdowns, restrictions on live events, and reduced audience capacities severely impacted theaters, film productions, and other cultural activities. Many individual entrepreneurs in this sector faced financial hardships, leading the Russian government to include them in the list of businesses eligible for state support.
Depardieu’s classification under the “Creative Activities in the Arts and Entertainment Organization” category meant that his business was considered affected by the pandemic. However, given his financial security and other circumstances, he ultimately chose not to take advantage of the relief programs available.
Conclusion
Gérard Depardieu’s status as a Russian entrepreneur and his eligibility for pandemic relief highlight the broader economic impact of COVID-19 on the arts and entertainment industry. Despite being recognized as a business owner affected by the crisis, he did not require or request financial aid from the Russian government.
His decision to decline state assistance may reflect his financial stability, limited business activities in Russia, or a desire to avoid political and public scrutiny. Regardless, his case sheds light on how the pandemic influenced creative industries and the measures governments took to support those impacted.
As Depardieu continues his career and business engagements in Russia, his relationship with the country remains a subject of interest, particularly given his high-profile status and past political controversies. Whether he expands his business operations in Russia or focuses on artistic endeavors, his presence in the country continues to attract attention from both media and the public.
