While many Hollywood fans are familiar with the elegant and talented Vera Farmiga from films like The Conjuring series and Up in the Air, or with Taissa Farmiga’s compelling performances in American Horror Story, very few know about the man who helped raise and guide them—Mykhailo Farmiga. He is not an actor, director, or producer, yet his role in shaping the lives of two powerful women in the entertainment industry is undeniable.
Mykhailo is the father of seven children and has lived a life away from the flashbulbs and headlines. What makes him fascinating is his journey from Ukraine to the United States, his strong cultural roots, and how he and his wife, Luba, built a nurturing and value-rich environment that helped their children thrive.
Quick Bio
Detail | Information |
Name | Mykhailo Farmiga |
Birth Date | January 10, 1942 |
Age | 81 |
Mother | Not Known |
Father | Not Known |
Siblings | Not Known |
Wife | Lubomyra “Luba” Farmiga |
Sons | Victor, Stephan, Alexander |
Daughters | Nadia, Vera, Laryssa, Taissa |
Known For | Father of Vera Farmiga and Taissa Farmiga |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Ukrainian |
Religion | Christianity |
Height | 5 feet and 10 inches (178 cm) |
Weight | 73 kilograms (161 lbs) |
Net Worth | $2 to $3 million |
Gender | Male |
Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
A Ukrainian Heritage That Runs Deep
Born in Ukraine, Mykhailo Farmiga immigrated to the United States during a period when many Ukrainians sought political and economic refuge. Although the exact details of his early life remain largely private, his heritage and traditions have played a significant role in the Farmiga household. He and his wife, Luba, ensured their children were raised with a strong connection to their Ukrainian roots. Ukrainian was the primary language spoken at home, and it was only when Vera began school that she learned English.
This decision to preserve their cultural identity wasn’t merely symbolic. It laid the foundation for a household built on discipline, hard work, and a deep appreciation for family and faith. Mykhailo’s role in preserving this cultural framework enabled his children to stand strong in their identities, even as they moved into the often chaotic world of Hollywood.
Career and Work Ethic: A Blue-Collar Foundation
Unlike many celebrity parents, Mykhailo Farmiga led a modest and hard-working life. He worked as a systems analyst before switching to a more physically demanding profession in landscaping. While neither job earned him the public’s admiration, they represented his dedication to his family and their future. His willingness to work hard at any job to support his large household instilled a sense of purpose and humility in his children.
This strong work ethic is visible in the careers of his daughters. Vera is known for her rigorous approach to her roles and her intense preparation process, while Taissa has displayed remarkable maturity and emotional intelligence from a young age. It’s hard not to draw a connection between their grounded attitudes and the values instilled by their father.
Marriage and Parenting: A Team Effort with Luba Farmiga
Mykhailo’s marriage to Luba Farmiga, a former schoolteacher and later a travel agency manager, represents a partnership built on shared goals and mutual respect. Together, they raised seven children, a task that required immense patience, dedication, and coordination. With Mykhailo often working demanding jobs and Luba taking charge of education and household management, they created a home where intellectual and creative pursuits were encouraged.
Unlike many parents of large families, Mykhailo was involved in his children’s lives, not just financially but emotionally. He emphasized traditional family values, faith, and education—all of which are apparent in the personal and professional achievements of his children.
Raising Vera Farmiga: Nurturing a Hollywood Star
Vera Farmiga’s path to fame began on stage, but her real education began at home. Raised in a Ukrainian-American household, Vera was initially destined for a career in classical music. She studied piano for many years before turning her attention to acting. Mykhailo supported his daughter’s changing interests and ambitions, never pushing her in one direction but instead allowing her to discover her passion organically.
His low-key presence was essential in keeping her grounded as her career took off. Vera has often spoken about her family’s influence, especially the way her parents raised her to be mindful, respectful, and independent.
The Farmiga Household: A Cultural and Educational Oasis
In the Farmiga household, education was key, but so was faith and culture. Mykhailo and Luba enrolled their children in Ukrainian Catholic school and made religion an integral part of their daily lives. They celebrated Ukrainian holidays, followed religious customs, and maintained close ties with the Ukrainian-American community.
This upbringing gave the Farmiga children a sense of belonging and continuity. While many families lose touch with their cultural heritage after immigration, the Farmigas held onto theirs with pride. This blend of traditionalism and adaptation to American life helped shape resilient, culturally rich individuals ready to face the world.
A Father of Seven: Life Beyond the Spotlight
Though Vera and Taissa are the most publicly known of his children, Mykhailo is the father to five other children. Each has pursued different life paths, some private and some semi-public, but all appear to share the values of diligence, humility, and deep familial bonds. Mykhailo’s ability to manage such a large household with grace and consistency is no small feat.
His children have described him as quiet, wise, and deeply committed to his family’s well-being. In an era when fame often brings dysfunction, the Farmigas stand out for their cohesion and warmth, a testament to Mykhailo’s steadfast guidance.
Influence Without Fame: Why Mykhailo’s Story Matters
In today’s celebrity culture, where even the parents of stars become tabloid regulars, Mykhailo Farmiga is refreshingly different. He has chosen a life of privacy, letting his daughters shine while remaining a strong pillar in the background. His story matters because it highlights how behind every success is often a quiet supporter, someone who made sacrifices so that others could dream.
His influence is not in headline-making scandals or Hollywood connections, but in the values and integrity his children display. That’s a legacy more enduring than fame.
The Farmiga Family Today: A Legacy in Progress
As Vera continues to expand her career into directing and producing, and Taissa builds a reputation as a talented and versatile actress, the legacy of Mykhailo Farmiga lives on through their achievements. His work ethic, cultural pride, and unwavering support have set the stage for a multi-generational success story rooted in humility and resilience.
While he may never receive the accolades his daughters do, those who look deeper can recognize that Mykhailo Farmiga’s story is one of quiet triumph—of an immigrant father whose dreams for his children came true not through luck, but through values, effort, and love.
Conclusion: Celebrating a Quiet Hero
In an industry obsessed with stars, it’s important to remember those who stand behind the spotlight. Mykhailo Farmiga is one such figure—a man who traded personal glory for family success, who raised his children with honor and dedication, and whose influence echoes through every role Vera and Taissa take on.
He may not walk the red carpet, but in the story of the Farmiga family, Mykhailo Farmiga is a central character. His legacy is not measured in awards but in the strength and talent of his children. And that is a story worth telling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Mykhailo Farmiga?
Mykhailo Farmiga is a Ukrainian-American former systems analyst and landscaper best known as the father of actresses Vera Farmiga and Taissa Farmiga.
2. Is Mykhailo Farmiga in the entertainment industry?
No, Mykhailo Farmiga is not involved in acting or entertainment. He worked in technology and landscaping and focused on raising his family.
3. How many children does Mykhailo Farmiga have?
He has seven children, including Vera and Taissa Farmiga.
4. Where is Mykhailo Farmiga originally from?
He is originally from Ukraine and later immigrated to the United States.
5. What values did Mykhailo Farmiga instill in his children?
He emphasized hard work, cultural pride, faith, and humility—values reflected in his children’s careers and personal lives.