In the latest season of Vampires of the Middle Band, Zhenya makes a dramatic return from death. It wasn’t surprising to some that the hero would survive, and fans who worried about his fate can breathe easier knowing he reappears in a surprising, lively form.
The actor recalls having a sense of certainty about the twist—he even teased that the script hints at his character’s end, though he keeps the details to himself and lets the story unfold on screen. Since the resurrection, the character has taken on a lighter, more humorous vibe, transforming into a playful, somewhat reckless young vampire on screen. The actor describes this shift as a natural result of the character’s renewed life, and he approaches the role with responsibility, even when the material turns more comedic and buoyant. The project’s on-screen arc feels complete to him, and the sense of closing a chapter comes through in how the scenes feel right from the first read.
The new season introduces a number of fresh faces, alongside a change in the project’s director. When asked how the veteran team welcomed the newcomers, the actor notes that while crew dynamics often shift behind the scenes, the core concept of the show remains intact. He believes this consistency is a major plus and a reason the series continues to feel coherent and true to its original vision.
The first season’s standout moment for many viewers was the collaboration with Yuri Stoyanov. The actor expresses deep respect and gratitude for Yuri Nikolayevich, acknowledging the impact of his work on Russian cinema and the privilege of sharing scenes with someone of his stature. He treasures the professional admiration they receive for their joint performance and values the chance to work with such seasoned talent.
A notable addition in the new season is choreographer Yegor Druzhinin, who brings his dance expertise to the project. The interview highlights the excitement of collaborating with a prominent dancer, though scheduling and the pace of filming made it hard to establish a long conversation about dancing. Still, the experience is described as a positive encounter with a compelling collaborator.
The 2022 hit Black Spring, featuring a melancholic Mel enthralled by 19th-century aesthetics, is recalled as a project that deeply resonated with the actor. Initial skepticism about the role faded quickly after early conversations with the directors and team, revealing a professional magic in the character development that aligned with the project’s artistic direction.
When asked about his relationship with education in acting, the actor admits that while he formed bonds with teachers across schools, formal training is not the sole path into cinema. He believes acting can be learned through immersion in the craft, and that the most important goal for an actor is to connect with the audience’s inner experience rather than check boxes on a resume. This perspective reflects his experience of working while learning, and his willingness to grow through practical, on-set experience.
The character’s unrequited love storyline prompts a reflection on his own life. The actor says he draws inspiration from people and situations around him, with cinema serving as a daily influence that feeds his creative output. He describes the sense that authentic emotion can fuel artistic work and the songs he writes, which often echo the feelings of the characters he portrays.
A cover of Zabava by Mumiy Troll became associated with Black Spring. The creators originally planned it as a soundtrack piece, but the team proposed a personal interpretation instead. They received permission from the artist and viewed the project as a chance to grow artistically while staying true to the film crew they care about. The artist notes he does not typically favor covers, and regards Zabava as a landmark song in its own right.
When asked about mentors in acting, he points to the influence of every colleague, underscoring the value of learning from those around him. He also reflects on memorable projects and emphasizes that each role leaves a lasting impression, with some assignments remembered more vividly than others as he guards the details of his career like a collection of carefully hidden memories.
Several shoots took place outside the capital, with Crimea and the Perm Territory leaving especially strong impressions due to their landscapes and atmosphere. The actor travels frequently across Russia for tours, and he notes distinct rhythms of life in different cities. While Moscow offers a certain pace, other places shape him in their own ways, reminding him that a person can set their day according to inner choices rather than location alone.
A New Year’s message expressed hope for every child to enjoy a happy childhood. The actor fondly remembers his own youth and the value of a cheerful, hopeful start in life.
In a beloved series about a boy moving from Moscow to the countryside, the actor faced questions about schooling and personal challenges. He explains that overcoming teenage difficulties often comes from stepping back and acknowledging one’s inner truth, with sports serving as a healthy outlet and a way to redirect energy away from conflict. He also reflects on whether teachers should simply teach or also help shape a student’s social development, arguing that education is a shared responsibility between schools and families to prepare a child for life.
Regarding responsibility to the audience, the actor emphasizes the importance of striving to become a better version of oneself every day, recognizing that effort and a touch of luck drive progress. He hopes fans will see a commitment to personal growth reflected in his work and interactions.
Audience reactions show many young women reaching out with stories tied to his performances. He acknowledges the complexity of pursuing relationships under public scrutiny and explains that he works to protect his personal space while staying open to meaningful connections. When asked about future projects, he speaks about the ongoing process of maturation and the careful choice of stories, emphasizing the need for a coherent universe and a clear cinematic language before taking on another directing role.
The actor recalls a chance acquaintance with Guf. While their connection isn’t intimate, the meeting holds significance, and he respects the career guidance offered by a longtime intimate in the industry. He hints at potential collaborations with idols from different generations but keeps plans private. Looking ahead, he imagines collaborations with artists like Tyler, the Creator, James Blake, and Russ, while also hoping to reserve time for his own improvisations with friends. This sense of ambition reflects a broader creative drive and a desire to continue growing as an artist, both on screen and behind the scenes.