Mikhail Bilalov

About

Mihail Bilalov is a Bulgarian theatre, film and television actor, recognised for his extensive stage career and award-winning performances. He was born on 19 May 1965 in Ruse, Bulgaria, and grew up in Burgas in a family of actors. In 1989, he graduated from the Krastyo Sarafov National Academy for Theatre and Film Arts, where he studied drama acting under Professor Nikolay Lyutskanov. Following his graduation, Bilalov continued his artistic development in France, undertaking acting training at the Paris Conservatoire. During his years abroad, he also studied landscape design in Versailles before returning to an active career in the performing arts. His theatrical repertoire spans classical and contemporary drama, combining complex dramatic characters with sophisticated comedic performances. His stage credits include *M. Butterfly*, *The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia?*, *What's in a Name?*, *The Farewell Dinner*, *Night Butterfly*, *The Secret of a Don Juan*, *Mission London* and *Breaking Up Couples at Home*. In 1994, Bilalov received the Askeer Award for Rising Star for his performance in *M. Butterfly*. In 2010, he won the Ikar Award for Best Leading Actor for his portrayal of Martin in Edward Albee's *The Goat, or Who Is Sylvia?*, directed by Yavor Gardev at the Ivan Vazov National Theatre. In 2014, he was also honoured with the Golden Quill Award for his contribution to Bulgarian culture and the arts. Bilalov gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Petar Tudzharov, known as Jaro, in the acclaimed Bulgarian crime series *Undercover*. His television credits also include *The Fourth Estate*, *Relationships*, *Dear Heirs* and *Guilt*. His film appearances include *Where Do We Go Now?*, *And Where Do We Go Today?*, *The Colour of the Chameleon*, *The Petrov File* and *The Naked Truth About the Zhiguli Band*. Beyond acting, Bilalov is also known as a television presenter, having hosted the Bulgarian edition of *Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?*, titled *Stani Bogat*. His work across theatre, cinema and television has established him as a prominent figure in contemporary Bulgarian performing arts.