Is Yakov Smirnoff Jewish?

Yakov Smirnoff is a Ukrainian-American comedian, actor, and writer known for his distinctive humor centered around his experiences as an immigrant from the Soviet Union to the United States.

Yakov Smirnoff was born on January 24, 1951, in Odessa, Ukraine, then part of the Soviet Union. He emigrated to the United States in 1977, seeking a better life and opportunities.

Yakov Smirnoff became a U.S. citizen in 1986. He has been married twice and has two children. He resides in Branson, Missouri, where he also runs a theater.

Yakov Smirnoff gained fame in the 1980s with his stand-up comedy that often highlighted the contrasts between Soviet and American life. He has appeared in several films and TV shows and continues to perform live, particularly at his theater in Branson.

Yakov Smirnoff has had a successful career in comedy, including appearances on major TV shows and films like "Moscow on the Hudson" and "The Money Pit." He also holds a master's degree in psychology and has taught courses on happiness and laughter.

Yakov Smirnoff has largely maintained a positive public image and has not been involved in any major scandals throughout his career.

Yakov Smirnoff created the famous comedic catchphrase, "What a country!" which became widely recognized during the 1980s. He also established the Yakov Smirnoff Theatre in Branson, Missouri, where he performs regularly.