Denis Chuzhoy (real name Denis Alesin) is a Russian stand-up comedian, screenwriter, and comedy video creator. Known for projects such as Open Mic, Class of the People, and Bad Books. Born on July 23, 1988, in Zheleznogorsk, Kursk Oblast, RSFSR.
In November 2024, the Russian Ministry of Justice added him to the registry of natural persons designated as "foreign agents."
Denis Chuzhoy's stance on the war in Ukraine
On the very first day of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Denis Chuzhoy openly spoke out against the war, publishing a Telegram post where he expressed profound shock and incomprehension at what was taking place, describing the invasion as an "absolute nightmare":
Later, he began receiving death threats from individuals claiming to be Wagner PMC operatives. At a live performance in Vologda, hostile attendees even brought a funeral wreath directly to the stage. Soon afterward, the comedian left Russia, though he returned briefly several times for performances. He donated a portion of the proceeds to assist Ukrainian refugees.
Chuzhoy did not limit himself to silence or passive disagreement: his anti-war stances were woven into his stand-up routines and interviews, rather than being a one-off remark.
Following his departure, the comedian lived for some time in Turkey, then relocated with his wife and pets to Germany on a global talent visa. Currently, he resides in Spain.
Career abroad
Chuzhoy continues his creative career in Europe as an English-language stand-up comedian. He performs at European and American stand-up comedy clubs and participates in international events discussing freedom of expression and comedians in exile.
In 2023, alongside former Comedy Club resident Aleksandr Nezlobin, he conducted a stand-up tour across the United States.
Denis Chuzhoy remains one of the few Russian comedians who openly condemned the war from its inception and continues speaking out against it from abroad.
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