The farewell ceremony for Eduard Sagalaev, a prominent figure in Russian broadcasting and the President of the National Union of Broadcasters, is scheduled for May 16. The event will take place in the funeral parlor at the Troekurovsky cemetery in Moscow, as reported by TASS citing the relatives of the deceased. The family confirmed that the farewell service is planned to begin at 11:00 a.m.
Eduard Sagalaev passed away at the age of 77. The exact cause of death has not been disclosed. The passing marks the end of a long and influential career in Russian media that touched multiple generations of viewers and professionals alike, leaving a lasting impact on television culture in the country.
Sagalaev held the title of Honored Journalist of Russia and was a recipient of the USSR State Prize in literature, art, and architecture, recognizing his broad contributions to media and culture. He was born on October 3, 1946, and pursued higher education at the University of Samarkand, graduating from the Faculty of Philology in 1967. His early professional years saw him at the helm of youth programming within the main editorial directorate of youth programs for the USSR State Television and Radio Broadcasting Corporation during the 1980s.
From 1988 to 1990, Sagalaev served as editor-in-chief and vice-president of the information department at the State Television and Radio Broadcasting Corporation. He also took on responsibilities as editor-in-chief of the information program Time and as host of the program Seven Days. His leadership extended beyond presenting and production roles, as he led the National Association of Publishers starting in 1995, guiding a broad network of media professionals and shaping industry dialogue during a critical period of change in Russian media.
Throughout his career, Sagalaev earned a reputation for his clarity, vision, and ability to navigate the evolving media landscape. His work influenced generations of journalists and broadcasters, and his dedication helped to elevate the standards of information programming in Russia. The forthcoming farewell will serve as a moment for colleagues, friends, and family to reflect on the breadth of his contributions and the mark he left on public discourse and media practice.
Observers note that Sagalaev balanced editorial leadership with a deep commitment to the craft of journalism. His leadership during transitional years for Russian television and radio helped maintain rigorous standards while embracing new technologies and formats. The legacy of his editorial direction is observed in the continuing emphasis on accuracy, accountability, and thoughtful public service in broadcasting across Russia and the broader region.