In a recent interview, Sergei Lazarev revealed that he no longer plans to pursue a career as a producer.
He described producing as a thankless role in the modern digital era, where the Internet and social networks shape public perception almost instantly. Previously, Lazarev collaborated with Konstantin Cherkas and Svyatoslav Stepanov, who were part of the project I Want to Meladze, and together they performed in the DVOE duet.
Lazarev explained that the Cherkas-Stepanov duo dissolved because both members wished to pursue solo paths.
“The group started strong, but eventually they chose to go their own way. I realized I didn’t want to stand in the way. If someone is determined to improve, a contract cannot stop them,” the artist noted.
On December 1, the Vyborg District Court in Saint Petersburg fined the channel Quince TV half a million rubles for a video titled Very Beautiful, which Lazarev prepared for what the authorities described as LGBT propaganda. The case involved the “LGBT International Social Movement,” which is banned as extremist in the Russian Federation.
Roskomnadzor’s protocol stated that at least two women appeared in the video, and the agency claimed the footage depicted tactile, sensual interaction between individuals presenting their same-sex preferences. The description highlighted features such as hair, nail shapes, manicure, and jewelry as elements that the agency interpreted as signs of two distinct women. This interpretation was presented as evidence of the content’s alignment with what the agency labels as propaganda. [Roskomnadzor]
Previously, Lazarev had discussed what he would ask Santa Claus for during the New Year, offering a glimpse into his personal reflections and holiday desires. [Ethics and media guidelines]