The Moscow Olympics Mascot, also known as Misha, was created for the 1980 Summer Olympic Games held in Moscow, Soviet Union. Misha is a bear cub, symbolizing the spirit of Russia and representing friendship and goodwill. It was designed by Russian artist Victor Chizhikov and was chosen from over 50 other ideas. Misha quickly became one of the most beloved characters of the Olympic Games. Misha's design was inspired by a popular Russian folk tale about a bear cub, which is seen as a symbol of strength and kindness in many cultures. The mascot's name, Misha, is a diminutive form of Mikhail, a common Russian name.
A gigantic reproduction of the mascot was also lifted from the stadium by colourful balloons.
At the closing ceremony of the Moscow Games, a large mosaic of Misha in the stands of what is now known as Luzhniki stadium showed a tear rolling down the bear s face. Viewers were asked to choose between a hare, a stoat, a squirrel, an eagle, a badger, a grouse and a cockerel but the bear was the overwhelmingly popular choice.
The mascot's name, Misha, is a diminutive form of Mikhail, a common Russian name. Misha was depicted as a smiling bear cub wearing a colorful belt with the Olympic rings and a yellow star on his chest. Misha became a global sensation during the 1980 Olympics.
Creator of 1980 Moscow Olympics mascot dies at 84
Viktor Chizhikov, the creator of the brown bear mascot Misha for the 1980 Moscow Summer Olympics, has died at the age of 84.
A children's book illustrator, Chizhikov is best known for bringing the iconic mascot to life at the Games which began 40 years ago this week.
The decision to choose the bear for the mascot came as it was the national animal of the Soviet Union, with the Games coming at the height of the Cold War.
Misha was chosen through a Soviet television programme called In the Animal Kingdom.
Viewers were asked to choose between a hare, a stoat, a squirrel, an eagle, a badger, a grouse and a cockerel but the bear was the overwhelmingly popular choice.
The design proved so popular that many Russians still fondly remembered him when the 2014 Winter Olympics were held in Sochi.
More than 60 countries did not compete in Moscow after a boycott was successfully started by the United States in protest of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
Four years later in retaliation, the Soviet Union and most Eastern-bloc nations boycotted the Los Angeles 1984 Games.
Misha is one of the Games' most iconic mascots ©Getty ImagesAccording to the International Olympic Committee website, a group of artists produced 60 versions of the mascot, but Chizhikov's bear was chosen for the Games.
His death was announced by a children's book publisher on Facebook with a tribute left in his honour.
A statement by AST Deti said: "It's symbolic that the artist has left us as many of us are remembering the 1980 Olympics.
"The image of the Olympic bear once created by Viktor Alexandrovich has touched the hearts of millions."
At the Closing Ceremony for the 1980 Games, a large mosaic of Misha was in the stands showing a tear rolling down its face.
Then, a reproduction of the bear was lifted from what is now the Luzhniki Stadium by colourful balloons.
Timeline
Related stories
- July 2020:Music composed for Moscow 1980 Olympics performed again to mark 40th anniversary of Games
- November 2019:Philip Barker: Memories of Moscow and an Olympics so close to greatness
- February 2014:Philip Barker: Sochi 2014 have lot to live up to match Misha farewell at Moscow 1980
- March 2011:Sochi 2014 polar bear is "grandson of Misha" says Chernyshenko
- March 2011:Misha the Bear creator claims Sochi 2014 polar bear has been stolen from him
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Michael Houston Senior Reporter
Michael Houston is a senior reporter at insidethegames.biz. He has worked at several major events, including the cycling at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. He also has experience working for the World Curling Federation and British Athletics.
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TOP STORY: North Korea withdraw from Asian Para Games due to ban on flag
The mascot appeared in various promotional materials, merchandise, and souvenirs, making it an iconic symbol of the Moscow Games. Misha's image was widely used on posters, pins, stamps, and even on the Olympic medals. The mascot was not only popular among athletes, but it also captured the hearts of millions of spectators from around the world. Misha's popularity continued long after the conclusion of the Games, as the character was featured in various television shows, books, and cartoons. The mascot became a symbol of the Soviet Union's hospitality and warm welcome during the Olympics, and it is still recognized as one of the most memorable mascots in Olympic history. Overall, the Moscow Olympics Mascot, Misha, played an essential role in promoting the spirit of friendship and cooperation during the 1980 Summer Olympic Games. Its design and character have left a lasting impact on the Olympic movement and continue to be remembered fondly by people worldwide..
Reviews for "The Moscow Olympics Mascots: Beyond Plush Toys and Souvenirs"
1. John - ★☆☆☆☆
I was really disappointed with the Moscow Olympics mascot. It was incredibly uninspired and lacked any real creativity. I expected something unique and memorable, but instead we got a bear dressed in a tracksuit. It just felt like a lazy choice and didn't have the charm or character that other mascots have had in the past. Overall, it was a missed opportunity and didn't add any excitement to the event.
2. Emily - ★★☆☆☆
I found the Moscow Olympics mascot to be quite underwhelming. The design was lackluster and the concept felt overdone. A bear as the mascot for a Russian event? It just seemed unimaginative and didn't stand out among the mascots of other Olympic Games. I was hoping for something more innovative and representative of Russian culture. Unfortunately, the Moscow Olympics mascot fell short of my expectations.
3. Alex - ★★☆☆☆
The Moscow Olympics mascot was nothing special. It felt like a generic choice and lacked any real personality. The bear theme has been done before, and I was hoping for something more original and engaging. I understand the symbol of the bear in Russian culture, but I expected a more creative interpretation for the Olympic Games. It just didn't leave a lasting impression on me and felt like a missed opportunity to showcase Russian creativity.