Early Beginnings: A Moldovan-Ukrainian Icon
Born on November 11, 1985, in Tiraspol, Moldavian SSR, Soviet Union, Valeria Valeryevna Lukyanova embarked on a journey that would make her a global sensation. This Moldova-born Ukrainian model, known for her striking resemblance to a Barbie doll, has roots deeply embedded in Russian culture. With her parents – her mother serving in the military sector and her father a builder and part-time DJ – Lukyanova’s early life was as diverse as her career.
Path to Stardom: Beauty Queen to Internet Sensation
Winning Miss Diamond Crown of the World
In 2007, Lukyanova’s beauty and charisma won her the title of “Miss Diamond Crown of the World”. Competing against 300 contestants, she stood out, despite the contest’s openness to plastic surgery and body modification. This win was a stepping stone that catapulted her into the limelight.
Media Attention and the Barbie Image
Lukyanova’s Barbie doll-like appearance, amplified by makeup and eye contact lenses, attracted immense attention. Her online posts showcasing her unique looks went viral, earning her a worldwide following and significant media coverage. Her features, often described as ‘almost inhuman’, sparked both admiration and skepticism.
Overcoming Controversy: A Model’s Response to Criticism
Amidst the fame, Lukyanova faced accusations of heavy reliance on image editing software. To counter these claims, she took to YouTube and Russian TV, admitting to breast augmentation but denying other plastic surgeries. Her candid responses and refusal to conform to traditional celebrity norms kept her in the public eye, for better or worse.
Expanding Her Horizons: Music, Acting, and Spirituality
A Spiritual Guide and Musician
Lukyanova’s talents extend beyond modeling. As an instructor at the School of Out-of-Body Travel, she explores spiritual realms. Her spiritual name, Amatue, reflects her deep interest in metaphysical concepts. Moreover, she has recorded two albums of new-age music, showcasing her versatility as an artist.
Venturing into Acting
Lukyanova’s acting debut came with ‘The Doll’ in 2017, a horror film presented at the Cannes Film Festival. This role leveraged her unique appearance and added depth to her persona beyond being just a model.
Personal Life and Philosophies
A Unique Lifestyle
Married to Ukrainian businessman Dmitry Shkrabov, Lukyanova’s personal life is as unconventional as her career. She practices a raw vegetarian diet, once experimented with breatharianism, and has firmly expressed her desire to not have children. Such choices reflect her non-conformist approach to life.
Controversial Views
Lukyanova has not shied away from expressing her opinions, even when they spark controversy. Her political stance during the war in Donbas and her views on race and beauty have been subjects of intense debate.
Conclusion: Understanding Valeria Lukyanova
Valeria Lukyanova’s journey from a small-town girl in the Soviet Union to a worldwide phenomenon is a tale of transformation, controversy, and resilience. Her life story goes beyond her Barbie-like appearance, encompassing her talents, beliefs, and the controversies that have surrounded her. As she continues to evolve, Lukyanova remains a figure of intrigue and inspiration for many.