Sergei Lazarev, a celebrated pop vocalist with a long career, spent five years as a central figure on the televised talent project Let’s all together!. The sixth season’s finale saw him take the stage once more before making a personal announcement that would be felt by fans and contestants alike. The work he poured into the show over those years created a lasting impression, and his decision to step away arrived as a notable moment in the program’s history. The finale brought a mix of celebration for the season’s talent and reflection on Lazarev’s long partnership with the project, underscoring how much the show had become a part of his artistic journey and the lives of many aspiring performers who crossed its path.
“Unfortunately, each broadcast was very difficult for me emotionally, so I eventually decided to leave the project. Friends, I’m sorry, but this is my last season,” the artist shared in a candid message that resonated with viewers. The statement made clear that the pressures of performing live, the scrutiny that comes with television, and the toll of year after year of high-stakes moments contributed to his choice. In presenting his decision, Lazarev acknowledged the emotional investment required to guide and encourage fresh voices, signaling a final bow while honoring the arc he helped define for the show and its loyal audience.
One of the season’s judges, Nikolai Baskov, expressed gratitude for Lazarev’s emotional openness and unwavering dedication to music and art. Baskov noted that Lazarev treated every contestant as if they were family, fostering a sense of trust and camaraderie that extended beyond the studio walls. The praise reflected the strong bond that formed over six seasons, with Lazarev’s presence shaping not only performances but also the culture of mentorship and mutual respect among the team and participants alike. Baskov’s remarks served as a public reminder of the personal connections that often turn a televised competition into a formative chapter for everyone involved.
The finale of the sixth season, which aired on November 29, crowned Elen Badalyan, a 17-year-old contestant, as the winner. She secured a prize of five million rubles and earned the opportunity to have a song played in rotation on New Radio, a milestone that could propel her music career to new audiences. The evening also featured Lazarev in performance, contributing to the emotional resonance of the broadcast as viewers watched a longtime collaborator leave while a new voice stepped into the spotlight. The combination of high-stakes competition, generous rewards, and the passing of a baton to a promising young artist highlighted the enduring appeal of the show and its capacity to launch fresh careers while honoring its veterans.
During the season, Lazarev found himself at the center of a controversy tied to one episode in which he pressed the voting button for juror Lev Rudin, who chose not to vote. As a result, two participants received a full set of points, a gift described as coming from composer Igor Krutoy. The incident sparked discussion among fans and commentators about fair play, judges’ influence, and the dynamics of live voting on a reality competition. The episode became a talking point well beyond the studio, prompting viewers to reflect on how backstage decisions and televised moments can shape the trajectory of contestants and the perception of the show’s integrity. The matter continued to echo through discussions of the season and its aftermath, illustrating how a single moment can linger in public memory as part of a larger narrative about talent, mentorship, and competition. Earlier mentions of the situation surfaced in another program that explored what happened next, reinforcing how media outlets revisit moments that stir curiosity and debate among audiences who follow the show closely.