Speaking about the second season’s scripts, the actor describes his initial reactions as surprising in places, noting that certain plot turns place his character in unexpected situations and highlight the writers’ bold choices.
Regarding the production process, he explains that the team cannot read all scripts at once. They review three or four at a time, assemble a working film of ideas, and revisit them later. The script group evolves, with each writer bringing distinct strengths. The production and TV-3 channel encourage creative thinking, turning ideas into the scenes audiences see. This setup makes the scenarios feel more diverse and engaging, with the parallel detective thread catching viewers off guard in a good way.
When asked whether the new season will show a collapse or a smooth continuation of season one, he emphasizes that the series is a classic, complete story where the core arc remains stable while fillers shift. Episodes can be incredibly funny, emotionally touching, or even a touch mystical. The already viewed episodes demonstrate variety, appealing to a broad audience regardless of guest appearances.
Regarding the Ivanov family’s on-set energy, he notes it is strong no matter who directs. The first season was helmed by Yuri Osipov, the second by Stanislav Nazirov, and the current work is led by Vyacheslav Kirillov. Managers rotate due to the large scale of the project, yet the star respects the lineage: Yuri Nikolaevich guided the 39-episode first season from start to finish, his collaboration with Nazirov was fruitful, and Kirillov’s direction continues to build momentum.
On the growing interest in tarot readers, hypnologists, and magicians, he says such demand never completely fades. The show’s appeal lies in its blend of comedy, mystery, and detective work, while featuring a family of prophets who are, at heart, human. That human dimension is a big plus for viewers seeking warmth alongside intrigue.
When asked if mysticism resonates with him, he aligns with a grounded view, much like his character Valera. Coincidences happen, he concedes, but he sees them as ordinary coincidences rather than mystical forces. Valera’s personality mirrors this stance, the humor often outweighing any sense of mysticism.
Evaluating the current state of modern Russian TV, he avoids claiming critical authority. He does watch certain series and believes demand drives expansion, especially as international players retreat. He contends that Russian productions can rival European and American work in quality, and he is grateful to contribute. The trend toward more Russian series feels like a healthy sign for the industry, not a decline.
On reality shows, he says he was not invited to TV-3’s The Last Hero, but would have enjoyed participating. He values the experience such programs offer and would gladly consider future opportunities, noting his openness to new formats.
Regarding a business dream that has not yet come true, he notes that artists crave compelling roles and fresh entertainment formats, including theatre. Dreams come in steps: one goal is achieved, another appears, and the cycle keeps him moving forward, always pursuing the next challenge.
He discusses the collaboration on the song Ponty with Leonid Agutin, Gosha Kutsenko, and Alexander Gutin. His friendship with lyricist Sasha Gutin and his closeness to Gosha Kutsenko helped bring the quartet together, and the result is a memorable clip with strong music and thoughtful lyrics.
Asked if this is a one-off event or the beginning of a new era, he believes it is currently a single project for now, linked to Leonid Agutin’s next album. The idea of replicating a Beatles-like phenomenon isn’t the plan at the moment.
On ostentation and social display, he acknowledges vanity as a facet of life. If it can be laughed at and lightened, why not engage with it in good humor?
Having voiced characters in various foreign films earlier in his career, he explains that he continues doing voiceovers, though there are more commercials than feature projects now. He began with voice work, found it rewarding, and later shifted focus to acting and hosting. His son has inherited the voice-over interest, continuing the family tradition.
Speaking about Quartet I, he praises it as a remarkable theater phenomenon: contemporary, relevant, and attentive to topics people discuss in cafes with friends. He has appeared twice and views the ensemble as among the most modern in theater, reflecting life as it is now and offering a platform for frank conversation about modern concerns.
Looking ahead, he hints at surprises as part of the profession. He remains committed to keeping audiences engaged by offering something new when the moment suits. He continues to host two programs on television, History of a Great Country and Super Ivanovs, with a new season under way, and he teases another project on the Rossiya channel in development. Filming is set to begin in September, a milestone he welcomes with enthusiasm and a promise to share news when it becomes available.