Comedian Yakov Smirnoff, at 74, Is Expecting Baby Number 3
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Comedian Yakov Smirnoff is gearing up for a new chapter in his life as he is set to welcome his third child at the age of 74. Smirnoff, known for his stand-up comedy, shared the exclusive news with PEOPLE, expressing his excitement at the prospect of becoming a father again.

The veteran entertainer, already a father to two adult children, Natasha and Alexander, from a previous relationship, is overjoyed to be embarking on this journey with his wife, Olivia Kosarieva. Embracing the unexpected nature of this new addition to their family, Smirnoff humorously remarked, “At my age, most people are planning for retirement. Me? I’m buying diapers.”

In an interview with PEOPLE, Smirnoff joked about the unconventional timing of expanding his family, quipping, “People keep asking me, ‘Yakov, how did this happen?’ And I say, ‘Same way it always happens… just with more stretching and heating pads afterward.'”
The news of the impending arrival took Smirnoff and his wife by surprise, but in a positive way. Reflecting on the moment they discovered they were expecting, Smirnoff shared their humorous perspective, stating, “We figured, we’d just go ahead and make our own grandchild. We’ll skip a generation!”
Despite the initial shock, Smirnoff is relishing the experience of impending fatherhood once again. He fondly recalls the touching moment when they heard the baby’s heartbeat for the first time, shedding light on their contrasting reactions. Smirnoff jokingly remarked, “She was crying because she realized she has to give birth. I was crying because this kid is going to college one day.”
As they prepare for the arrival of their little one, Smirnoff and his wife are contemplating the childbirth process. With a humorous twist, Smirnoff shared, “Now, my wife — God bless her — wants to have a natural childbirth. This is the same woman who needs 10 shots of Novocaine to fill a tiny hole in her tooth.”
Embracing the unique dynamics of starting afresh with a new baby at 74, Smirnoff highlighted the magic of the experience. “There’s something magical about starting over like this. You know more. You worry less. You appreciate the moments more,” he expressed, looking forward to cherishing each moment, except perhaps the diaper changes.
In conclusion, Smirnoff expressed his gratitude for the unexpected joy that this new chapter has brought into his life. With a blend of humour and heart, the comedian shared his excitement for the future, reflecting on the unique circumstances that make this journey all the more special. “And only in America… can you have a baby, be eligible for Medicare, and get a senior discount on diapers all at the same time. What a country!” he concluded.
The announcement of Yakov Smirnoff’s upcoming arrival has added a heartwarming touch to his illustrious career, showcasing a different side to the beloved comedian. With his trademark wit and charm, Smirnoff’s journey into fatherhood at 74 is a testament to the joy and surprises that life can bring at any age.
The seasoned entertainer’s playful take on impending parenthood serves as a reminder that laughter truly knows no bounds, transcending generations and bringing lightness to even the most unexpected moments. As the world eagerly anticipates the newest addition to the Smirnoff family, the comedian’s joyful perspective on this new chapter resonates with both fans and newcomers alike.
