In a segment of the show Mask, the pop icon Philip Kirkorov entertained a fan theory about his father, Bedros, potentially hiding within the costume of the mysterious contestant known as Vodyanoy. The moment sparked immediate speculation, and Kirkorov appeared convinced by his own hunch, turning the idea into lighthearted speculation rather than a serious accusation. He teased the possibility aloud, drawing smiles and playful reactions from the studio audience and, at times, from the character in the mask herself or himself depending on the moment of the performance.
Vodyanoy himself played along with the moment, engaging in banter with Kirkorov and acknowledging the celebrity’s wit by calling him “son” in a playful nod to the joke. The exchange added a layer of humor to an evening that already mixed mystery with entertainment, as the contestants used personas that concealed their identities and sparked curiosity among the hosts and viewers alike.
During the show, a masked attendee extended a playful invitation to host Regina Todorenko, inviting her to sit on the lap of the masked figure. Kirkorov, meanwhile, commented on the possibility that his own father might share a similarly relaxed and jovial attitude toward life, joking that the elder performer could be “also a ladies’ man.” Todorenko clarified her current relationship status and responded to the invitation with a courteous, humorous retort, declining the offer while maintaining the lighthearted spirit of the moment. She added that she would only participate in such a playful moment if her husband Vlad Topalov accompanied her, suggesting that the ensemble would even recite poetry together if the moment called for it.
As the episode unfolded, Todorenko’s remarks and the surrounding banter helped set a buoyant, subversive tone that balanced the intrigue of the mask with genuine camaraderie among the hosts. The dynamic among the presenters created a sense of vitality that carried through the studio, turning what might have been a straightforward unmasking show into an event filled with warmth, humor, and shared anticipation for the reveal behind the next disguise.
In a broader update about the program, it was announced that Kirkorov would continue his role on the Mask judging panel. He remained a central figure alongside other notable personalities who contribute to the show’s distinctive blend of mystery and music. The panel’s composition varied, with Valeria and Timur Rodriguez joining Todorenko and Kirkorov at different points, enriching the dialogue with their own perspectives on performance, stagecraft, and television ethics. The program premiered on the NTV channel, marking a season that emphasized stylistic shifts and fresh energy to appeal to a broad audience across Russia and neighboring regions where the program is watched with enthusiasm.
In terms of visual presentation, Kirkorov altered his on-screen look to reflect a more formal aesthetic. Departing from his earlier, flamboyant outfits dotted with rhinestones, he adopted a refined black suit that conveyed a sense of elegance suitable for the jury’s evolving dynamic. To complement the change, he wore a black wig and glasses, creating a distinctive, composed silhouette that contrasted with the more theatrical flair many viewers associate with his public persona. This sartorial choice underscored a willingness to adapt to the evolving tone of the show while maintaining a strong screen presence that fans recognize and respond to.
Beyond the present season, prior collaborations between Kirkorov and Nikolai Baskov had already demonstrated their ability to harmonize on stage, most notably when they performed together in matching jackets that highlighted their shared sense of showmanship and mutual appreciation for bold, coordinated fashion. Those moments contributed to the show’s sense of nostalgia and camaraderie, reinforcing the idea that Mask is as much about relationships and shared history in the entertainment world as it is about the mystery of the masked contestants.