Singer Ildar Abdrazakov was barred from taking part in performances at several European theaters, according to a Telegram channel associated with Opera Ballet. The report claims that Abdrazakov was removed from productions in Paris, Vienna, and Zurich. The alleged reason involves his attendance at a gathering of voters supporting Vladimir Putin as an independent presidential candidate in the 2024 elections. The event reportedly included other prominent figures such as Valery Gergiev, Yuri Bashmet, Khibla Gerzmava, and Nikolai Tsiskaridze, suggesting a broader political context behind the decision. Abdrazakov, who was slated to sing in Zurich in Rossini’s Italian in Algiers, in Vienna in Verdi’s Nabucco, and in Paris as Don Quixote in Massenet’s Don Quixote, has not publicly commented on the suspensions and told a forthcoming interview that he would speak about them later. (Source: Opera Ballet Telegram channel)
On the international stage, Abdrazakov rose to prominence after achieving success in a major competition described in earlier reports as akin to a Maria Callas tribute in Parma in 2000. The following year, at the age of 24, he made his debut on the La Scala stage, seizing attention from audiences and critics alike. Over the years, the singer became known beyond the opera world, appearing in popular television formats and collaborations on Russian projects, including appearances in shows that blend music, performance, and reality formats. (Source attribution: various media outlets)
There was also public discussion around advertising relationships involving other well-known figures, with a spokesperson or attorney weighing in on rumors about advertisers choosing not to work with the artist. (Source attribution: entertainment press)