Meet Mykhailo Farmiga: The Story of Vera and Taissa Farmiga’s Father

Early Life and Background

Mykhailo Farmiga was born on January 10, 1942, in Ukraine, a country whose turbulent history would shape his future. His early years were heavily influenced by the events of World War II. His parents, Nadia and Theodor Spas, met in a displaced persons camp in Karlsfeld, Germany, during the war. This tumultuous period marked the beginning of his life, instilling in him a deep sense of survival and resilience. Growing up amidst the post-war struggles, Mykhailo developed a strong appreciation for his Ukrainian heritage. These formative years would play a significant role in shaping his values, which he later passed on to his children.

Age and Physical Appearance

Mykhailo Farmiga was born on January 10, 1942, which makes him 83 years old as of now. While there is limited public information about his physical appearance, it’s clear that he has aged with grace, maintaining a strong and resilient presence throughout his life. His commitment to family and cultural values has been a hallmark of his personality, and his children have often spoken about his unwavering dedication to these aspects of their lives. Despite not being a public figure in the same way his daughters are, Mykhailo’s presence is deeply felt within his family and community.

Mykhailo’s Immigration to the United States

In search of better opportunities, Mykhailo decided to leave Ukraine and immigrate to the United States. His journey took him through Argentina, where he spent some time adjusting to life before finally settling in New Jersey. It was here that Mykhailo, alongside his wife Lubomyra “Luba” Farmiga, created a new life for their family. The decision to leave his homeland was not an easy one, but Mykhailo’s resilience and hope for a brighter future guided his journey. The Farmiga family settled in a vibrant Ukrainian-American community in New Jersey, where they maintained a strong connection to their Ukrainian roots.

Professional Life and Career Changes

Mykhailo Farmiga’s career reflects his adaptability and willingness to embrace change. Initially, he worked as a systems analyst, leveraging his technical skills to support his family. However, he later shifted careers and pursued landscaping. This transition from the corporate world to working outdoors showed his flexibility and dedication to ensuring his family’s well-being. Mykhailo’s career path, though varied, was a testament to his resilience—a trait that has been passed down to his children.

Marriage to Lubomyra “Luba” Spas

Mykhailo married Lubomyra “Luba” Spas, a dedicated educator who played a significant role in the upbringing of their seven children. Luba was instrumental in ensuring that the Farmiga children were grounded in both their Ukrainian culture and education. Together, Mykhailo and Luba built a strong family foundation, blending Ukrainian traditions with the opportunities available in America. Their marriage has been a partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared values, particularly their commitment to raising their children with a strong cultural identity.

Children: Vera, Taissa, and the Farmiga Siblings

Mykhailo and Luba had seven children: Victor, Vera, Stephan, Nadia, Alexander, Laryssa, and Taissa. The Farmiga children were raised in a home that emphasized the importance of their Ukrainian heritage, with a strong focus on family values, education, and community. The influence of their parents was evident in their diverse careers, with both Vera and Taissa making their mark in Hollywood. Each of Mykhailo’s children pursued different paths, but their shared upbringing created a strong bond between them. Mykhailo’s legacy lives on through his children, who carry forward the cultural and familial values instilled in them.

Vera Farmiga: The Acclaimed Actress

Vera Farmiga, born on August 6, 1973, in Clifton, New Jersey, is the second eldest of Mykhailo and Luba’s children. Growing up in a household where Ukrainian was the primary language, Vera’s early years were deeply influenced by her heritage. Vera’s passion for acting emerged during her high school years, and she later pursued theater studies at Syracuse University. Her career took off after being cast in Up in the Air, a role that earned her an Academy Award nomination. Vera went on to star in several successful films, including The Conjuring series, where she portrayed Lorraine Warren, and Bates Motel, where she played Norma Bates. Aside from acting, Vera has also ventured into music, releasing a heavy metal single titled The Crying Room with her band The Yagas, dedicated to the resilience of the Ukrainian people.

Taissa Farmiga: The Youngest Daughter’s Rising Star

Taissa Farmiga, born on August 17, 1994, in Whitehouse Station, New Jersey, is the youngest of the Farmiga siblings. She was homeschooled by her mother, Luba, and was introduced to acting by her older sister, Vera. Taissa’s breakout role came in the anthology series American Horror Story, where she quickly gained attention for her performances. She also starred in The Nun, a successful horror film in which she played the lead role. Taissa’s growing popularity in Hollywood reflects not only her talent but also the influence of her upbringing, which emphasized creativity, education, and cultural identity. Like her sister Vera, Taissa remains closely connected to her Ukrainian heritage, and this connection is often reflected in her public persona.

The Farmiga Siblings and Their Close-Knit Bond

The Farmiga siblings share a unique and close bond, one that is rooted in both their shared Ukrainian heritage and the values instilled in them by their parents. While each sibling has pursued a different career path, they all remain grounded in the traditions of their heritage. Whether through their work in the arts, education, or other fields, the Farmiga family continues to honor their cultural roots. The siblings are supportive of one another and maintain strong family ties, despite the different paths they’ve taken in life. Their unity is a testament to the strength of the foundation their parents, Mykhailo and Luba, built for them.

The Legacy of Mykhailo Farmiga

Mykhailo Farmiga’s legacy extends far beyond his personal accomplishments. His influence is most evident in the lives of his children, particularly Vera and Taissa, whose careers in Hollywood have made a significant cultural impact. Through his dedication to preserving Ukrainian culture, Mykhailo ensured that his children understood the importance of their roots, and this has been reflected in the work of his daughters. The Farmiga family’s story is a reflection of the immigrant experience in America—one of resilience, hard work, and the importance of maintaining one’s cultural identity. Mykhailo’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of the Farmiga family and serves as a reminder of the power of family values and cultural pride.

Net Worth of Mykhailo Farmiga

As of 2025, Mykhailo Farmiga’s estimated net worth is approximately $1 million. This wealth primarily stems from his career as a systems analyst and later as a landscaper. While he maintained a low public profile, his dedication to his family and work laid the foundation for the success of his children, particularly his daughters Vera and Taissa, who have achieved prominence in Hollywood. It’s important to note that these figures are estimates, as Mykhailo has not publicly disclosed his financial details.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Mykhailo Farmiga’s life story is a powerful testament to the resilience of immigrants, the importance of cultural identity, and the strength of family bonds. From his early years in war-torn Ukraine to his successful life in the United States, Mykhailo’s journey has been one of perseverance and determination. His unwavering commitment to his family and their Ukrainian heritage has left an indelible mark on the lives of his children, especially Vera and Taissa, who have become well-known figures in Hollywood. Mykhailo’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and cultural pride—a legacy that continues to inspire and influence those who know his story.

(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Who is Mykhailo Farmiga?

Mykhailo Farmiga is a Ukrainian-American immigrant known as the father of actresses Vera and Taissa Farmiga. He has had a significant influence on their careers and cultural identity, passing down Ukrainian heritage and values.

2. What is Mykhailo Farmiga’s background?

Born on January 10, 1942, in Ukraine, Mykhailo Farmiga grew up during World War II. He immigrated to the United States through Argentina and settled in New Jersey, where he raised his family in a Ukrainian-American community.

3. What was Mykhailo Farmiga’s profession?

Mykhailo Farmiga worked as a systems analyst early in his career but later transitioned to landscaping. His career reflected his adaptability and dedication to providing for his family.

4. How many children does Mykhailo Farmiga have?

Mykhailo Farmiga has seven children: Victor, Vera, Stephan, Nadia, Alexander, Laryssa, and Taissa Farmiga. His two daughters, Vera and Taissa, are the most well-known, both having achieved success in Hollywood.

5. What cultural values did Mykhailo Farmiga instill in his children?

Mykhailo emphasized the importance of their Ukrainian heritage, ensuring his children grew up speaking Ukrainian and participating in cultural activities like dance, music, and community involvement.

6. How did Mykhailo Farmiga influence his daughters’ careers?

Through his dedication to family and culture, Mykhailo helped foster a sense of identity in his daughters, Vera and Taissa. His support and strong cultural foundation played a role in their success in Hollywood, especially in their unique portrayals in film and television.

7. What is Mykhailo Farmiga’s net worth?

While Mykhailo Farmiga has not publicly disclosed his financial details, his estimated net worth is around $1 million. His wealth primarily comes from his work as a systems analyst and landscaper, with his daughters’ success contributing to the family’s financial stability.