Internet Star
Stepan
c. 2018–present
The Ukrainian internet-famous cat whose relaxed, wine-glass photos won millions of followers — and who became a symbol of resilience after fleeing the 2022 invasion.
- Owner
- Anna
- Years
- c. 2018–present
- Known for
- Internet Star
Stepan is a tabby cat from Kharkiv, Ukraine, who built a huge online following through beautifully deadpan photos of himself lounging at home, often pictured beside a glass of wine with the air of a cat thoroughly at ease with life. His unbothered elegance struck a chord, and over the years his social-media audience grew into the millions, making him one of Eastern Europe's best-known internet cats.
Stepan's story took on far greater weight in 2022, when the full-scale invasion of Ukraine forced his owner to flee their home. She escaped with Stepan in a carrier, travelling out of the country to safety, and shared their journey with his enormous following. His fame was turned to a purpose: partnerships and campaigns built around him raised significant sums for animal charities and for relief efforts helping pets and people affected by the war.
Recognised at international awards and embraced as a small, calming symbol of endurance, Stepan showed how an internet-famous animal could become something more than entertainment. Behind the serene photos was a real cat carried through danger by someone who loved him, and a following that channelled its affection into tangible help for others.
Further reading: Stepan on Wikipedia