Zhanna Vladimirovna Friske (born 8 July 1974 — died 15 June 2015), often transliterated Jeanna Friske and best known by the stage name Zhanna Friske, was a Russian pop singer, actress, model and media personality. She first gained wide recognition in the 1990s and remained a prominent figure in Russian popular culture through a blend of music, screen work and high-profile public appearances. Her Russian name and spelling are frequently shown in Russian-language sources: Жанна Владимировна Фриске.

Career and public image

Friske started as a member of the female pop ensemble Blestyaschie, one of Russia's best-known pop groups of the era. With the group she participated in recordings, concerts and television appearances, and later left to pursue a solo career. She released solo material, performed in clubs and on television, and cultivated a celebrity image that combined pop glamour with an accessible public persona.

In addition to music, Friske worked as an actress and model. She appeared in Russian films and television productions, taking roles that ranged from supporting parts to cameo performances. Her visibility in several entertainment fields made her a familiar face on entertainment programs and in tabloids, and she occasionally took part in public events and charity concerts. For an overview of her film and music credits see external resources: career overview.

Notable facts and highlights

  • Member of the pop group Blestyaschie during her early career, later a solo performer.
  • Worked in film and television in Russia, often appearing as herself in entertainment formats.
  • Maintained a high public profile through media appearances, modeling and live performances.

Personal life, family and illness

Friske's private life attracted intense media attention. In 2013 she gave birth to a son, Philip, whose father is television presenter Dmitry Shepelev; the couple was widely covered in press accounts. In the years that followed, Friske publicly confronted a serious health challenge: she was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Her diagnosis and treatment drew significant public sympathy and media coverage in Russia, and she sought specialist care both at home and abroad. Further background and discussion of public reaction are available via additional sources: more on public response.

Death and legacy

Friske died on 15 June 2015 in Balashikha, Russia, at the age of 40, after a prolonged illness. Her death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, colleagues and media outlets. In popular memory she is remembered for her role in 1990s–2000s Russian pop culture: as a performer who bridged music, screen and celebrity life, and as a public figure whose illness and family story were widely followed. Her recordings and screen appearances continue to be cited in discussions of that era of Russian popular entertainment.