When a shell exploded near Oleksandr Budko during a fierce battle in August 2022, the Ukrainian soldier’s life changed irrevocably. The 26-year-old was left buried alive, enduring excruciating pain that led to the amputation of both his legs. As he helped defend the Kharkiv region from Russian forces, his unit was attacked, and Oleksandr found himself at the epicenter of a devastating crisis.
Fast forward two years, and Oleksandr Budko has emerged as a symbol of resilience and hope. Despite the harrowing experience that transformed his life, he has captured the public’s imagination and become a national celebrity. Budko is now the star of the Ukrainian version of “The Bachelor,” where multiple women vie for his affection.
Oleksandr’s transition from soldier to television personality is nothing short of remarkable. A recent promotional advert for the show depicts him in a sophisticated suit, gazing pensively at a flower, while other clips showcase him in military fatigues and performing pull-ups in a gym. The juxtaposition of his past and present highlights his journey from wartime heroism to a new form of fame.
Speaking in a rose garden in Kyiv, Oleksandr remains upbeat despite the demanding schedule. He candidly shares that while he hopes to find love through the show, the intense public scrutiny adds a layer of complexity to his search for a partner. “It’s going to be difficult to choose a partner with millions of people watching,” he admits.
But Oleksandr’s motivations extend beyond romance. He aims to leverage his high-profile role to shed light on the challenges faced by disabled Ukrainians. “This show is watched by millions of people, and it presents a huge opportunity to positively influence their outlook,” he explains. Oleksandr is determined to demonstrate that veterans like him are not outsiders but integral members of society who can lead fulfilling lives.
Before the war, Oleksandr was a barista and graphic design student in Kyiv. He had dreams of traveling, exploring the world, and starting a family. His aspirations were interrupted when he joined the army, only to face severe injuries in the conflict. Despite the adversity, he has embraced life with remarkable fortitude. Within six months of receiving prosthetic legs, he began to walk again, and his new reality became a platform for advocacy.
Kyiv’s infrastructure posed additional challenges for Oleksandr, who found the city ill-equipped for wheelchair users. His experiences underscore a broader issue in Ukraine, where tens of thousands of war-related injuries have highlighted the need for improved accessibility and support for disabled individuals.
Oleksandr’s story extends beyond reality TV. He has hosted “Legs Off,” a show documenting the difficulties faced by disabled individuals navigating Ukrainian cities. He has also penned a book, competed in the Invictus Games, and even performed with a ballet troupe in the US. His activities reflect a commitment to showcasing his capabilities and inspiring others.
The announcement of Oleksandr as the lead in “The Bachelor” generated such excitement that the application portal crashed, a testament to his popularity and the public’s support for his journey. Natalia Franchuk from STB, the network airing the show, underscores Oleksandr’s role as a beacon of hope. “Despite his amputations, Oleksandr rides a bike, drives a car, and climbs mountains. He lives life to the fullest,” she says. “If television is about filming reality, then who better could be the star of ‘The Bachelor’ now? Who else would be better suited in a country at war?”
Oleksandr Budko’s story is a powerful reminder of human resilience and the capacity to find purpose and connection, even in the face of profound hardship.
