Learn About Yevgeny Prigozhin: Age, Birthdate, Zodiac Sign & More

Early Life

Yevgeny Prigozhin, often called "Putin's Chef," was born on January 1, 1961, in Saint Petersburg, Russia. He grew up in Leningrad and was raised by his single mother after his father passed away when he was still young. Despite the absence of his biological father, Prigozhin found a father figure in his stepfather, who was a ski instructor and played a significant role in shaping his future.

At a young age, Prigozhin displayed athletic potential and was enrolled in a prestigious athletics boarding school, where he graduated in 1977. However, his promising future took a sharp turn when he was arrested for stealing in 1979. This initial brush with the law was only the beginning of a troubled journey ahead.

Conviction and Redemption

In 1981, Prigozhin was sentenced to twelve years in prison for crimes including robbery, fraud, and involving teenagers in criminal activities. This period marked a dark chapter in his life, as he spent nine years behind bars in Soviet Union prisons. Despite the hardships he faced during his incarceration, Prigozhin emerged from prison with a newfound determination to turn his life around.

Upon his release in 1990, Prigozhin teamed up with his stepfather to establish successful businesses, marking the beginning of his rise to prominence in the business world. His entrepreneurial endeavors would eventually lead him to become a key player in Russia's catering and restaurant industry, earning him the moniker "Putin's Chef."

Rise to Power

Prigozhin's close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin and his reputation as a successful businessman propelled him to new heights of power and influence. He became known for hosting elaborate dinners for Putin and foreign dignitaries, solidifying his position as a trusted confidante of the Russian leader.

However, Prigozhin's business empire soon came under scrutiny for its alleged involvement in interfering with the 2016 and 2018 U.S. elections. His companies and associates faced economic sanctions and criminal charges in the United States, leading to his addition to the FBI's wanted list in February 2021.

Controversies

• Prigozhin controlled the Wagner Group, a mercenary organization operating in conflict zones such as Africa, Syria, and Ukraine. He openly admitted to founding the group to support Russia's military efforts in Ukraine, further cementing his reputation as a powerful and controversial figure.
• His marriage to business owner and pharmacist Lyubov Valentinovna Prigozhina resulted in two children, Polina and Pavel. The entire Prigozhin family faced sanctions in connection with his alleged criminal activities, further complicating their already tumultuous lives.
• Prigozhin's admission to interference in the 2016 U.S. Presidential election added fuel to the fire of controversy surrounding his actions and connections to high-level political figures.

Despite facing numerous legal challenges and international scrutiny, Yevgeny Prigozhin remains a powerful and enigmatic figure in the world of Russian politics and business. His journey from a troubled youth to a wealthy oligarch with ties to the highest echelons of power serves as a cautionary tale of the complexities and consequences of ambition and influence.