He is probably best known for the role of the research worker Robespier Galabov portrayed by him in the Bulgarian hit movie The Past-Master (1970).

Other notable film appearances include Gerlovo Event (1971) directed by Grisha Ostrovski and Farsighted for Two Diopters (1976) written by Mormarevi Brothers.

Yakovlev is also known for the numerous roles on the stage of the Theatre “Salza i Smyah” (Tear and Laughter), Sofia.

His father Yuriy Dimitrievich Yakovlev, also actor and stage director, was of Russian descent.

In 1967, Yakovlev joined the troupe of the newly founded theatre “Salza i Smyah” (Tear and Laughter), Sofia where he remained until his retirement from the stage in 1992.