Olga Yurevna Lysova is often recognized for her brief marriage to billionaire Roman Abramovich, but her life story stretches far beyond that connection. Born on April 6, 1965, in Astrakhan, a historic city along the Volga River in southern Russia, Olga grew up in a family deeply connected to the country’s political landscape. Her father, a respected government diplomat, played a key role in shaping her early worldview, exposing her to international affairs, diplomacy, and the complexities of global politics from a young age.
Now at 60 years old, Olga’s life tells a story of quiet strength, single motherhood, business ventures, and personal evolution.
Early Life and Single Motherhood
Before fame or headlines, Olga faced her own set of life-defining challenges. In her early twenties, she entered a relationship with a young actor. From that union came her first child, Nastya, born when Olga was still navigating early adulthood. Becoming a single mother in 1980s Soviet society wasn’t easy, but she didn’t let that slow her down.
Raising a daughter alone while focusing on her personal growth became a theme that would define her resilience. Even in her early twenties, she showed a strong sense of independence that set the tone for her future choices.
Meeting Roman Abramovich
In 1987, Olga’s life took a significant turn. At 23, while dining in a restaurant in Ukhta, a city in the Komi Republic, she met a 20-year-old Roman Abramovich. At that time, Roman was just an ambitious young man with dreams of building something big. Despite the age gap and different life experiences—Olga already had a two-year-old child—their bond formed quickly.
Their whirlwind romance led to marriage in December 1987. This relationship wasn’t just romantic—it was also the start of a business partnership that would play a pivotal role in Abramovich’s rise. The couple co-founded a small business making plastic dolls, one of Roman’s first ventures into the world of entrepreneurship. Though modest in scale, this business gave Abramovich his first taste of profit and built confidence for the empire he would later create.
Role in Abramovich’s Early Success
During their three-year marriage, Olga was more than just a partner—she was a silent force behind the scenes. The doll-making business wasn’t glamorous, but it served as a launching pad for Abramovich’s entry into commerce. In interviews and biographies about Abramovich, this early period is often glossed over. But those close to the story know Olga’s support helped shape the direction of his business ambitions.
Still, like many young couples dealing with shifting dreams, they hit rough patches. A reported plan to emigrate to Canada never came to life, and the strain of ambition mixed with personal differences began to pull them apart. In 1990, the couple officially divorced.
Life After Divorce
After their separation, Olga took a different route. She didn’t chase the spotlight or wealth. Instead, she focused on rebuilding her life quietly. She stayed in Moscow and turned her attention to real estate investment. One known property she owned was an apartment on Tsvetnoi Boulevard, which she later rented out. This move showed her business sense and ability to create income without depending on her past connections.
Eventually, she met and married Stefan Stefanovich, a musician. Instead of stepping away from ambition, Olga leaned into her managerial side, helping guide Stefan’s career in the music industry. The two settled into a split-level apartment in Moscow, living a peaceful and private life together.
Strong Family Bond
Throughout every phase, one constant remained—her daughter Nastya. Born from her earlier relationship, Nastya has always been close to her mother. Even during Olga’s high-profile marriage and the aftermath of the divorce, the bond between mother and daughter stayed strong.
Now an adult, Nastya has stayed out of the spotlight much like her mother. Together, they’ve navigated the complexities of life connected to a globally known figure, while choosing privacy and dignity over attention.
Estimated Net Worth and Current Life
While Olga Yurevna Lysova never publicly discussed her finances, it’s believed she holds a modest net worth of approximately $2 to $3 million as of 2025. Most of this wealth likely comes from real estate investments and managerial roles in the music world. Compared to Roman Abramovich’s billions, it may seem small—but her wealth represents self-earned stability and a life lived on her terms.
She continues to live in Moscow with her husband, far removed from the public eye and headlines that often surround her ex-husband.
Legacy of Strength and Independence
Today, Olga is rarely mentioned in media, except in passing as Abramovich’s first wife. But her role in his early life was significant. She witnessed and contributed to his first steps as a businessman. More importantly, she rebuilt her own life afterward without relying on fame or fortune.
Her story is a powerful reminder that not all important figures live loudly. Some make their impact quietly, by showing resilience, making smart choices, and standing firm during life’s storms.
Olga Yurevna Lysova’s journey—from diplomat’s daughter to single mother, entrepreneur, and later a private but self-made woman—deserves more recognition. Not because of who she married, but because of how she lived after that chapter ended. A woman of grace, strategy, and quiet strength, she has created a life that stands entirely on its own.
