Roskomnadzor Shuts Russian Music Television Amid Leadership Questions

During the recent media audit, Roskomnadzor decided to discontinue the operation of the Russian Music Television media outlet. This decision was reported by the Telegram channel Puree. The report suggests that the central figures behind the channel, notably the primary composer and musician Igor Krutoy and the channel’s founder Vyacheslav Kormiltsev, did not actively manage or produce content under the brand for a prolonged period. The material indicates that these claims trace back to work recorded around two decades ago, which never reached the public since then. According to the report, Krutoy spent time living in the United States while Kormiltsev resided in England, factors that allegedly contributed to the channel drifting away from its stated mission. Roskomnadzor’s ruling labeled Russian Music Television as a media organization and subsequently halted its official activities, effectively removing it from the airwaves and online presence. The measure reflects broader regulatory scrutiny over media entities and their leadership claims, and it underscores how regulatory bodies in Russia monitor and, if needed, revoke licenses from channels that are perceived to be inactive or misaligned with their declared operations. (Citation: Puree Telegram channel) The shift also signals how the relationship between a channel’s founders and its broadcast identity can evolve over time, sometimes leading to tension between an organization’s branding and the actual management of its content. (Citation: Roskomnadzor decision) In recalling earlier interactions, the same report mentions a personal anecdote from Krutoy about exchanging signed gifts with the late humorist Mikhail Zhvanetsky. Krutoy described presenting albums with his own signatures to Zhvanetsky and receiving in return a complete set of works signed by a renowned contemporary satirist. He pressed that Zhvanetsky stands among the greatest satirists of modern times and that, in personal conversations, the genius of Zhvanetsky was a frequent topic of discussion for him. (Citation: Krutoy interview notes) The broader context highlights how individuals in the music and media space sometimes blend career milestones with intimate reminiscences about fellow artists. It also illustrates how long-held memories can surface in public discourse during regulatory or organizational upheavals. (Citation: industry commentary) While the specifics of leadership and day-to-day operations continue to be debated, the consequence for Russian Music Television is clear: its status as a media organization was terminated, ending its official participation in the broadcast ecosystem. This development may influence related projects, viewer expectations, and the future direction of music television in the region, especially in terms of licensing, programming, and brand continuity. (Citation: regulatory update) Observers point to regulatory clarity as a critical element for media stability. When authorities determine that an entity does not meet established criteria or fails to sustain active programming, actions such as the revocation of licensure become a practical outcome. The incident with Russian Music Television thus serves as a case study in how media entities are assessed, and how the public record reflects such decisions over time. (Citation: policy analysis) In sum, the episode captures a moment when formal regulatory action intersected with a narrative about creative leadership, personal legacy, and the evolving contours of a once-prominent music channel. (Citation: media recap)