Makeup artists are transforming actor Yuri Stoyanov into a stern elderly woman, one of several transformations awaiting the popular performer as filming begins on a new season of the series about a repeat offender nicknamed Artist.
In the first season, Stoyanov's character leaves prison intending to go straight, helped by money he had stashed away. The cash is hidden in the home of his son's family, none of whom want to see their ex-convict relative. Artist falls back on his old criminal skills, poses as a nanny for grandchildren he has never met, and sneaks into the house as hired help.
New season adds a detective plot
The continuation blends the comedy and melodrama with a detective storyline. Unknown criminals copy Artist's methods, putting the reformed thief back on a wanted list. An ambitious detective pursues him, making it increasingly hard for him to keep up his nanny disguise.
The role of Artist was written specifically for Stoyanov, whose colleagues say older actors often struggle to land lead roles. Yuri Itskov also appears in the new season, making the two veteran actors central to the project. Stoyanov is also working this year on another comedy, two sports dramas, and a film adaptation of Russian folk tales.
