The photo shone on Instagram as Klava Koka shared a moment with the mentors of the project New Star Factory on TNT— Sergei Zhukov and Sergei Shnurov. The message carried more than a snapshot; it marked a turn in a musician’s journey from outsider to jury member among celebrated figures.
In her caption, Koka recalled a struggle that felt all too familiar to many artists. She noted that just yesterday she faced rejection from numerous music contests, yet today she stands beside renowned veterans in the music world, serving on the jury of New Star Factory. The experience, she said, places her among the very audiences she once dreamed of entertaining at large venues. The sentiment was clear: perseverance can bend the arc of a career toward opportunity, and constant effort keeps dreams within reach.
Her takeaway was simple and direct: never abandon the pursuit of a goal, keep working daily, and let consistent effort convert small wins into lasting miracles. This mindset, she suggested, creates a path where persistence and passion converge to move a person closer to the standout milestone they have long pursued.
Among the initial five contestants on the project are notable names that reflect a blend of media and artistry. Tina Kandelaki’s son, Leo Kandelaki, appears as a TV presenter, songwriter, and performer. Daria Kochneva, a participant in the Yandex Music Iskra project, joins as a rising star with a distinctive vocal voice. Alexander, the son of the legendary chansonnier Mikhail Krug, brings a folk-inflected sensibility to the lineup. Maria Gordeeva, a jazz singer, adds a layer of sophistication, while Nikita Ufimtsev from Altai represents a new generation of performers. These participants illustrate the program’s mix of legacy, genre diversity, and fresh talent that the show aims to showcase to audiences across the country.
Following their performances, the contestants will move into a star house where they will live, create, and study for several months. A daily reality show will document the happenings inside the house, giving viewers an intimate look at the creative process, the challenges, and the camaraderie that forms among aspiring stars. Viewers can expect new episodes and updates as the participants navigate the demanding schedule, workshops, and rehearsals. The series will air with ongoing updates on TNT, keeping fans apprised of progress and milestones in the competition. The air date for the first major concert of New Star Factory was scheduled for March 3, signaling a fresh wave of performances and critical moments that could define the contestants’ futures.
There was an earlier controversy involving Sergei Shnurov that sparked discussion around the rules of the New Star Factory in relation to the involvement of Kandelaki’s son. The incident highlights the tensions that can arise when personal relationships intersect with competitive formats in television projects. The producers and participants alike appear to be navigating high expectations, public scrutiny, and the realities of a show that blends entertainment with talent development.