Maxim Vitorgan took aim at fellow stars on Instagram, critiquing Danila Kozlovsky and Nikita Kologrivoy in a volley of pointed remarks. He labeled Kozlovsky a “fake artist,” a jab that fed a broader debate about authenticity in modern acting. The remark also referenced the controversial status of the Meta company’s owner in Russia, who is considered an extremist and banned, adding a charged political edge to the chatter around the entertainment circle.
Vitorgan’s reaction followed Kozlovsky’s standout musical solo performance “FRANK,” in which the actor carried the lead role and drew praise for his artistry. Vitorgan described the show as a “celebration of the soul,” highlighting Kozlovsky’s stage presence and the performance’s blend of sparkle, irony, and poignancy. The veteran performer praised Kozlovsky as strikingly artistic, noting that his work carried a rare depth and skill that went beyond mere charm.
According to Vitorgan, Kozlovsky embodies the ideal of artistry in contemporary cinema and theater. The critique went beyond a simple compliment and touched on the craft involved: singing, acting, and stagecraft that together create a compelling experience. Vitorgan suggested that if Kozlovsky can avoid vanity and snobbery, and stay true to his craft, he might reach even greater heights in the future.
Earlier in January, Nikita Kologrivy had publicly criticized actors who he viewed as untrained, including Sasha Bortich. In that same period he took aim at Kozlovsky’s acting, calling him a “fake artist” and implying that some performances in popular projects undervalue the hard work of other cast members. The critique extended to expressions of disapproval toward the works of Soviet-era talents Innokenty Smoktunovsky and Alexander Abdulov, signaling a broader debate about legacy and talent in the industry.
Previously, Leonid Yarmolnik offered a sharp, if controversial, public remark about a star from the series “The Boy’s Word,” labeling the individual a fool. The exchange highlights a culture of provocative commentary among prominent figures in the entertainment world, where rivalries and reputational stakes often play out as much as the performances themselves. Yet behind the clashes, there remains a common thread: a desire to define what true artistry looks like in a fast-moving, highly visible industry.