How Ukraine's President Went From National Comedian To International War Hero

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has gained supporters around the world for his incredible leadership during Russia's invasion of his country.

But before he became the Kremlin’s number one target, Zelenskyy was a national treasure and comedian who had appeared in multiple films and TV shows.

In 2006, Zelenskyy won Ukraine’s Dancing With The Stars, and although some might think the reality show marks the kiss of death to one’s career, it was just the beginning of Zelenskyy’s bizarre portfolio.

Following his success on Dancing With The Stars, he voiced the loveable teddy in Paddington Bear for the Ukrainian dub version of the 2014 film.

He then starred in Servant of the People, a satirical TV show about a high school teacher who unexpectedly becomes the Ukrainian president after a video of him ranting about corruption went viral. 

Art intimidating life much??

The role catapulted Zelenskyy into stardom within Ukraine, which saw him grow a sizeable national following.

In 2016, the then-comedian recreated one of the show’s most memorable moments where he played the piano with his penis in front of a live audience.

A year later, despite having no prior political experience, Zelenskyy set up his political party, which was called Servant of the People after the show that helped make him a star.

In 2019, he won in a landslide election against President Petro Poroshenko where he pulled in more than 73 per cent of the votes.

Most people around the world probably wouldn't have been able to tell you his name up until about two weeks ago when Russian President Vladimir Putin declared his country would be invading Ukraine.

Despite staring down the figurative barrel of Moscow's supreme might, Zelenskyy hasn't wavered ever since.

He's been spotted in military uniform and has met with troops who are trying to keep Ukraine safe.

The President was offered to be evacuated out of his country so that he could be protected, however he rejected the proposal.

“The fight is here; I need ammunition, not a ride," Zelenskyy told the US, who offered the evacuation, “Ukrainians are proud of their President."

He added in a different message: “I am here. We are not putting down arms. We will be defending our country, because our weapon is truth, and our truth is that this is our land, our country, our children, and we will defend all of this."

The President has called on his people to help out in any way they can and has also been aided by foreign countries, unions and companies who have imposed sanctions or cut ties with Russia.

Zelenskyy said: "The invasion of Russia into Ukraine is not just an invasion, it's the beginning of the war against Europe.

"Against the unity of Europe. Against basic human rights in Europe. Against all rules of coexistence on the continent. Against the fact that European states refuse to divide borders by force."

He said that Putin’s Government ‘want to destroy Ukraine politically by destroying the head of state’.

But it's clear he won't let that happen.

He was a household name in Ukraine for being a brilliant comedian and actor, however he's now won praise around the world for his steely resolve and defiant attitude while facing off against Russia.

If you would like to donate to the Red Cross Emergency Appeal, which will help provide food, medicines and basic medical supplies, shelter and water to those in Ukraine, click here for more information.