The moment fans first caught a glimpse of Philip Kirkorov in the teaser for the fifth season of the popular TV series Mask, everyone immediately started buzzing. The clip, released on the official NTV website, teased a new chapter for the show while spotlighting the once again flamboyant pop icon who has become synonymous with showmanship and surprise.
In a notable shift from the pilot episode, Kirkorov stepped away from his signature glittering, color-splashed wardrobe and opted for a more restrained, formal look. He traded the bright rhinestones for a sleek black suit, creating a striking contrast that underscored a calmer, more mature stage persona. The styling went further with a black wig and glasses that lent him a different air, hinting at a deliberate reimagining of his on-screen presence while retaining the element of theatrical flair that viewers expect from him.
During a candid moment captured in the teaser, Kirkorov addressed Vyacheslav Makarov, the host, with a teasing but sincere line. “Slava, your image has me thinking about a few thoughts — I promise the boy, I will take notes,” he quipped, mixing humor with a wink at the ongoing creative process behind the show. The exchange underscored the playful camaraderie that characterizes Mask and foreshadowed the dynamic interactions audiences love to watch unfold on screen.
On February 16 it was confirmed that Kirkorov would remain a key member of the Mask jury. He will be joined by a star-studded panel that includes Valeria, Regina Todorenko, and Timur Rodriguez. The show is also signaling a rotating cast of guests, with Dima Bilan and Anatoly Tsoi slated to appear in the early episodes. Tsoi, noted as one of the triumphs from the previous season, adds a layer of continuity and anticipation for loyal viewers who follow the series closely, ensuring the jury remains both recognizable and refreshingly unpredictable.
The series is slated to air on NTV on February 18, promising a new round of performances and intriguing impersonations that have become the show’s hallmark. Viewers in Canada and the United States can expect a faithful broadcast schedule that mirrors the original air dates, with subtitled or dubbed options depending on regional availability, a common practice for major Russian productions aiming to reach a wider audience while preserving the integrity of the performances.
Earlier in the year both Dima Bilan and Kirkorov attended Anastasia Ivleeva’s notorious “naked” party, an event that sparked backlash from parts of the fanbase and required public apologies from the artists involved. The incident became a talking point across social media and entertainment news outlets, highlighting how celebrities navigate the fine line between bold, provocative publicity and the responsibilities that come with a broad, diverse audience. This context adds another layer to the public personas of the musicians and how they handle controversy in relation to their professional commitments.
On the first day of filming for the season’s premiere episode, Kirkorov openly reflected on the year that preceded the shoot. He joked about the party and candidly admitted that 2023 had been challenging, a humanizing note that resonated with fans who appreciate a performer’s willingness to acknowledge hardship while maintaining a forward-looking attitude. The moment underscored the human side of a figure often seen under the bright lights and scrutiny of television cameras, reminding viewers that behind the spectacle there are real reactions to real experiences.
Meanwhile, the broader discourse around the season has included discussions about public perception and industry dynamics, including support and opposition within the music and entertainment communities. A prominent star, a well-known lawyer who represents high-profile clients, has publicly weighed in on related debates, adding to the ongoing conversation about celebrity culture and media responsibility. These discussions reflect the high stakes involved when public figures balance artistry, public image, and obligations to their audience, especially when participation in a high-profile show intersects with broader cultural conversations. (Source: NTV)”}