Last Updated on November 14, 2026 by Carmen Marins
Dmitry Orlov is a Russian professional ice hockey defenseman for the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on July 23, 1991, in Novokuznetsk, Russia, he comes from an athletic family with strong connections to ice hockey and rugby.
His parents are Vladimir Orlov and Natalya Orlova, and his older brother is Maxim Orlov, a former professional rugby player and coach.
In his personal life, Dmitry is married to Varvara Orlova (née Amosova), a former competitive figure skater whom he met in their hometown of Novokuznetsk. The couple married in July 2016 and have a son named Kirill Orlov, born in June 2019.
From his childhood in Siberia to winning the Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals and joining the San Jose Sharks, Orlov has frequently acknowledged the importance of his family.
Dmitry Orlov’s Wife: Who Is Varvara Orlova?
Dmitry Orlov is married to Varvara Orlova, formerly known as Varvara Amosova.
Like her husband, Varvara comes from Novokuznetsk, a city in southwestern Siberia known for its hockey traditions.
She developed an interest in sports during childhood and participated in competitive figure skating before pursuing higher education.
In a 2017 interview with the Russian sports publication Championat, Varvara discussed her relationship with Dmitry, her athletic background, and their life together in the United States.
She explained that they met while studying at the physical education faculty of a university in Novokuznetsk.
At the time, Dmitry was developing his professional hockey career while Varvara was pursuing her own interests.
Their relationship continued as Orlov moved to North America to join the Washington Capitals organization.
How Did Dmitry Orlov and Varvara Amosova Meet?
Dmitry and Varvara met in Novokuznetsk, where they both attended higher education programs connected to physical education and sports.
Their shared athletic backgrounds provided common interests.
Varvara had participated in figure skating, while Dmitry had been involved in hockey and rugby since childhood.
In her 2017 interview, Varvara recalled that Dmitry played rugby during the summer and hockey during the winter.
As his professional career developed, their relationship continued despite the demands of international travel and relocation.
Varvara eventually joined Dmitry in Washington, D.C., where he was playing for the Capitals.
When Did Dmitry Orlov Get Married?
Dmitry Orlov and Varvara Amosova married in July 2016 in their hometown of Novokuznetsk, Russia.
Their wedding became public when the couple shared photographs of their celebration on social media.
On July 8, 2016, the Washington Capitals fan publication Russian Machine Never Breaks reported that Orlov had married his longtime girlfriend.
The wedding was attended by close relatives and friends.
Varvara thanked their families for helping organize the celebration and supporting their relationship.
The ceremony took place during the NHL offseason, allowing Dmitry to spend time in Russia before returning to Washington.
Although the wedding was widely reported on July 8, the exact ceremony date has not been independently established from the available reporting.
What Does Varvara Orlova Do for a Living?
Varvara Orlova is a former competitive figure skater with an educational background in physical culture.
She began figure skating at approximately seven years old.
According to her interview with Championat, she competed in singles skating and participated in national-level competitions in Russia.
She achieved the Russian sporting classification of Candidate for Master of Sport.
However, she eventually decided not to pursue figure skating as a long-term professional career.
She subsequently studied physical education in Novokuznetsk.
During her years in Washington, Varvara participated in photography projects and social activities involving other NHL players’ families.
She also discussed learning English and adapting to life in the United States.
Her current occupation has not been consistently documented in reliable public sources.
Dmitry Orlov’s Children: How Many Kids Does He Have?
Dmitry Orlov and his wife Varvara have one publicly confirmed child, a son named Kirill Orlov.
Kirill was born in June 2019, approximately three years after his parents married.
His birth was reported by Russian sports publications and North American hockey media.
More recent interviews with Orlov continue to identify his son as an important part of his family life.
Kirill Orlov – Dmitry Orlov’s Son
Kirill Orlov is the son of Dmitry and Varvara Orlov.
He was born in late June 2019.
Reports from Championat and Sport24 identify June 28 as his date of birth, while Russian Machine Never Breaks reports June 29. Because the published dates differ, the exact day is best treated as unconfirmed.
In September 2019, Varvara shared one of the first publicly available photographs of her newborn son.
The announcement attracted attention from Washington Capitals supporters who had followed the couple’s relationship and wedding.
As Kirill grew older, he became an important consideration in his father’s professional decisions.
How Fatherhood Changed Dmitry Orlov’s Life
In an October 2022 interview with The Washington Post, Orlov discussed the importance of raising Kirill and allowing him to enjoy childhood.
At the time, the family was living in the Washington, D.C., area.
Dmitry explained that he wanted Kirill to learn ice skating when he was ready rather than feel pressured to follow his father’s professional career.
He emphasized that his son should have opportunities to play, explore different interests, and enjoy growing up.
In July 2025, after signing with the San Jose Sharks, Orlov again discussed his son during an interview published by NHL.com.
He explained that Kirill enjoyed hockey and that finding a suitable school was an important consideration for the family’s move to California.
Orlov also sought advice from former teammate Brent Burns, who had spent many years living in the San Jose area.
The conversation helped him understand what life could be like for his wife and son in their new city.
Does Dmitry Orlov Have More Than One Child?
Only Kirill Orlov has been publicly confirmed as Dmitry and Varvara’s child.
In interviews published in 2025 and 2026, Orlov continued discussing his son without announcing additional children.
There are no reliable public reports confirming that he has another son or daughter.
Dmitry Orlov’s Parents
Dmitry Orlov was born to Vladimir Orlov and Natalya Orlova in Novokuznetsk, Russia.
Both parents played important roles in his development as an athlete.
Vladimir had an interest in rugby and other sports, while Natalya dedicated considerable time to supporting her son’s hockey career.
Their names and family background have been documented by Russian media outlets, including NGS42 and MIR24.
Vladimir Orlov – Dmitry Orlov’s Father
Vladimir Orlov is Dmitry Orlov’s father and an important influence on his early sporting development.
He previously worked for Russia’s traffic police and participated in recreational and competitive sports.
According to an interview published by the Kontinental Hockey League in November 2008, Dmitry’s father was particularly interested in rugby.
His enthusiasm influenced both of his sons.
Maxim pursued rugby seriously, while Dmitry participated in the sport alongside ice hockey.
Dmitry explained that he played rugby during the summer for approximately two years before concentrating more heavily on hockey.
How Vladimir Orlov Introduced Dmitry to Hockey
Vladimir helped introduce Dmitry to organized ice hockey during childhood.
Although rugby was already part of the family’s sporting tradition, Dmitry became increasingly interested in skating and playing hockey.
His father supported that decision and helped him join local youth programs in Novokuznetsk.
In a 2008 KHL interview, Orlov recalled that his father had taken him to hockey training.
He explained that he enjoyed the sport and decided to continue pursuing it.
Vladimir remained involved throughout Dmitry’s early development.
His understanding of competitive sports helped establish expectations for discipline, preparation, and physical conditioning.
Those values later became important as Dmitry progressed through Russian junior hockey and entered the NHL.
Natalya Orlova – Dmitry Orlov’s Mother
Natalya Orlova is Dmitry Orlov’s mother and one of his most dedicated supporters.
Her name was confirmed in a profile published by MIR24, which included comments from Natalya about her son’s hockey career.
She played an important role in helping him attend practices, tournaments, and other sporting activities.
According to the report, Natalya even left her job to dedicate more time to transporting Dmitry to training.
Her commitment became particularly important as his schedule grew more demanding.
Although Natalya was initially unfamiliar with ice hockey, she eventually became an enthusiastic supporter.
In her MIR24 interview, she recalled being reluctant to attend one of Dmitry’s early competitions.
However, after watching him play, she developed a strong interest in the sport.
She subsequently became a regular presence at his games whenever possible.
Natalya Orlova’s Support Throughout Dmitry’s Career
Natalya continued supporting Dmitry as he advanced from youth hockey to professional competition.
His development required frequent travel and considerable family commitment.
She followed his achievements as he joined Metallurg Novokuznetsk and later moved to North America.
Although the distance made attending every game impossible, his parents remained closely connected to his professional journey.
Dmitry has publicly thanked them for the time and effort they invested in his development.
Following Washington’s Stanley Cup victory in 2018, he specifically acknowledged his parents, brother, wife, and grandparents among those who had supported him.
His comments demonstrated the importance of several generations of family encouragement.
Dmitry Orlov’s Siblings: Meet His Older Brother
Dmitry Orlov has one publicly documented sibling, his older brother Maxim Orlov.
Unlike Dmitry, who pursued professional ice hockey, Maxim developed a successful career in rugby.
The brothers grew up in Novokuznetsk, where their father’s enthusiasm for sports helped shape their interests.
Maxim Orlov – Dmitry Orlov’s Older Brother
Maxim Orlov is Dmitry Orlov’s older brother and a former professional Russian rugby player.
He was born around 1986, making him approximately five years older than Dmitry.
Maxim developed his rugby abilities in Novokuznetsk and became an important player for local teams.
He represented the Novokuznetsk rugby club and eventually served as its captain.
His achievements were documented by Russian sports media and acknowledged by Dmitry in interviews.
In November 2023, while playing for the Carolina Hurricanes, Dmitry discussed his brother’s rugby career in an official NHL interview.
He explained that Maxim represented their hometown club and also played for Russian national age-group teams.
Maxim’s achievements included appearances with the under-18 and under-20 national rugby teams.
His sporting career contributed to the competitive environment in which Dmitry grew up.
Maxim Orlov’s Career After Professional Rugby
After his playing career, Maxim remained involved in sports administration and coaching.
He worked with rugby development programs in Novokuznetsk, including the Burevestnik rugby sports school.
In December 2023, Russian news outlet VSE42 reported that Maxim had been appointed director of the Arena of Kuznetsk Metallurgists in Novokuznetsk.
The announcement identified him as the older brother of NHL defenseman Dmitry Orlov.
Maxim’s leadership position provided another example of the family’s continuing involvement in competitive sports.
Although the brothers pursued different professional careers, both achieved recognition in their respective disciplines.
How Maxim Influenced Dmitry Orlov’s Childhood
Maxim’s enthusiasm for rugby influenced Dmitry during his younger years.
In an interview with the KHL in November 2008, Dmitry confirmed that both his father and brother participated in rugby.
He also explained that he had played the sport while continuing his hockey development.
In November 2023, he told the Carolina Hurricanes that rugby might have been his chosen sport if he had not pursued professional hockey.
He enjoyed the physical side of the game and appreciated the competitive opportunities it provided.
The brothers’ different sporting interests illustrate the athletic environment established by their parents.
Does Dmitry Orlov Have a Sister?
No sister has been reliably identified in Dmitry Orlov’s published family biographies.
His documented sibling is his older brother Maxim.
Although some reports discuss extended relatives, there is insufficient evidence to identify an additional sister.
Dmitry Orlov’s Childhood and Family Background
Dmitry Orlov was born on July 23, 1991, in Novokuznetsk, a major industrial city in Russia’s Kemerovo Region.
He grew up in a family where sports were an important part of everyday life.
His father and older brother were involved in rugby, while Dmitry became interested in ice hockey.
As a child, he also participated in rugby during the warmer months.
His early hockey development took place through Metallurg Novokuznetsk’s youth system.
According to local biographical reporting, he attended School No. 52 in Novokuznetsk, which had specialized hockey classes.
His parents supported him through the demanding schedule of training and education.
He gradually developed into a promising defenseman and began attracting attention from Russian national junior teams.
In 2008, he represented Russia at the IIHF World Under-18 Championship.
He subsequently gained experience with Metallurg Novokuznetsk in the Kontinental Hockey League.
How Dmitry Orlov Reached the NHL
The Washington Capitals selected Dmitry Orlov in the second round, 55th overall, of the 2009 NHL Draft.
He continued developing in Russia before joining Washington’s American Hockey League affiliate, the Hershey Bears.
Orlov made his NHL debut on November 21, 2011, against the Phoenix Coyotes.
He scored his first NHL goal on January 15, 2012, against the Carolina Hurricanes.
Over the following seasons, he developed into an established NHL defenseman.
Known for his skating ability, physical play, and strong shot, Orlov became an important member of Washington’s defensive lineup.
His professional success allowed him to build a long-term life in the United States with Varvara.
Dmitry Orlov’s Stanley Cup Victory and Family Celebration
One of the biggest achievements of Dmitry Orlov’s career came in 2018.
The Washington Capitals defeated the Vegas Golden Knights to win the Stanley Cup for the first time in franchise history.
Orlov played in all 24 of Washington’s playoff games and contributed eight points.
Following the championship, he brought the Stanley Cup to his hometown of Novokuznetsk.
The visit allowed relatives, friends, and local hockey supporters to celebrate his achievement.
During an interview with Sport-42, Orlov thanked his parents, wife, brother, grandparents, and former coaches for helping him reach professional hockey.
He emphasized that their encouragement and sacrifices had contributed to his success.
The championship became an important milestone for the Orlov family and the city where he began playing hockey.
Dmitry Orlov’s Relationship With Alex Ovechkin’s Family
Dmitry Orlov developed a close friendship with former Washington Capitals teammate Alex Ovechkin.
The two Russian players spent more than a decade together in Washington and won the Stanley Cup in 2018.
Their relationship eventually extended to their families.
Varvara Orlova became the godmother of Ovechkin’s eldest son, Sergei.
The family connection has been confirmed in Russian sports interviews and reporting published by Russian Machine Never Breaks.
Even after Dmitry left Washington, he continued maintaining a friendship with Ovechkin.
In August 2026, the publication reported that the players had spent time together in Russia during the NHL offseason.
Although they are not biological relatives, their families share a close personal relationship.
Dmitry Orlov’s Move to the San Jose Sharks
After spending more than a decade with Washington, Orlov was traded to the Boston Bruins in February 2023.
He subsequently signed with the Carolina Hurricanes in July 2023.
During his two seasons in Carolina, he continued contributing as an experienced NHL defenseman.
On July 3, 2025, the San Jose Sharks signed Orlov to a two-year contract worth $13 million.
The agreement carries an average annual value of $6.5 million.
The move created another important transition for Dmitry, Varvara, and Kirill.
In an interview published by the Sharks, Orlov explained that the family’s well-being influenced his decision to join San Jose.
He considered the area’s schools and opportunities for his son before making the move.
Former teammate Brent Burns, who spent many years playing for the Sharks, provided advice about living in California.
Orlov subsequently settled in the region with his family and began playing for San Jose during the 2025–26 season.
In a 2026 interview with Sport24, he spoke positively about life in California, describing the climate and outdoor environment as appealing.
He also explained that the family continued visiting Novokuznetsk during the summer so Kirill could spend time with his grandparents and experience Russian family traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dmitry Orlov’s Family
Who is Dmitry Orlov’s wife?
Dmitry Orlov is married to Varvara Orlova, née Amosova, a former competitive figure skater from Novokuznetsk, Russia.
When did Dmitry Orlov get married?
Dmitry Orlov married Varvara in July 2016 in their hometown of Novokuznetsk.
How did Dmitry Orlov meet his wife?
Dmitry and Varvara met while studying at a physical education faculty in Novokuznetsk, Russia.
Does Dmitry Orlov have children?
Yes. Dmitry Orlov has one publicly confirmed child, a son named Kirill Orlov.
When was Dmitry Orlov’s son born?
Kirill Orlov was born in June 2019. Published reports disagree about whether his exact birth date was June 28 or June 29.
How many children does Dmitry Orlov have?
Only one child, Kirill, has been publicly confirmed.
Who are Dmitry Orlov’s parents?
His parents are Vladimir Orlov and Natalya Orlova. They raised him in Novokuznetsk, Russia.
Who is Dmitry Orlov’s father?
Vladimir Orlov is Dmitry’s father. He previously worked for the Russian traffic police and enjoyed playing rugby and other sports.
Who is Dmitry Orlov’s mother?
Natalya Orlova is his mother. She dedicated considerable time to supporting his hockey training and became one of his most enthusiastic supporters.
Does Dmitry Orlov have siblings?
Yes. Dmitry Orlov has an older brother named Maxim Orlov.
Who is Dmitry Orlov’s brother?
Maxim Orlov is a former professional rugby player and coach. He later became involved in sports administration in Novokuznetsk.
Does Dmitry Orlov have a sister?
No sister has been reliably identified in his publicly available family biographies.
Is Dmitry Orlov related to Alex Ovechkin?
They are not known to be biological relatives, but their families share a close relationship. Dmitry’s wife Varvara is the godmother of Ovechkin’s son Sergei.
Where is Dmitry Orlov from?
Dmitry Orlov is from Novokuznetsk, Russia, where he began his hockey career with Metallurg Novokuznetsk.
What NHL team does Dmitry Orlov play for?
Dmitry Orlov plays for the San Jose Sharks, who signed him to a two-year contract in July 2025.
Combining a deep passion for hockey with an analytical mindset, Carmen Marins covers the NHL from the opening night of the season all the way through the Stanley Cup playoffs. She focuses on game strategy, team chemistry, trade deadline updates, and player performance metrics, breaking down high-speed ice action into engaging, accessible insights for readers.
