Singer Vika Tsyganova and her husband Vadim Tsyganov have publicly criticized Oleg Gazmanov, accusing him of a double standard regarding SVO policy, during an interview with Yuri Dud on the VDud channel. The couple framed Gazmanov’s stance as hypocritical and noted that his past actions spoke louder than his words in this moment of national tension. They described Valery Meladze and Alexander Revva as figures aligned with problematic attitudes, labeling them as traitors, while suggesting that Gazmanov himself harbors a conflicted outlook that is evident in his public responses.
The Tsyganovs argued that a Russian artist should not perform abroad in Dubai during a time of heightened national strain, calling into question the prudence of such appearances in the current climate. They recalled a controversial episode tied to Gazmanov and offered a tongue-in-cheek critique, insinuating a split personality as a way to highlight perceived inconsistencies in his public positions. When Ukraine was raised, Gazmanov did not lend support or defend Russia’s stance; instead, he shifted the topic, which the couple interpreted as evasive behavior.
According to Vadim Tsyganov, genuine conduct would demand at least a clear alignment with the moment’s responsibilities. He stated that if one is placed in front of banners by supporters, there should be a straightforward compliance—an expectation of basic decency in the face of national duty. While acknowledging Gazmanov’s talent and the appeal of his songs, the couple insisted that music cannot substitute for a clear, principled stance during a time of conflict or crisis.
The interview with the Tsyganovs was released on October 26 on the VDud YouTube channel. At the outset, the journalist welcomed the couple for joining the conversation, noting that the interview came at a time when differing political perspectives did not stand in the way of a candid dialogue. This openness was highlighted as a notable moment in a year marked by political divisions and public discourse. The couple emphasized their willingness to speak honestly even as they held different views from the interviewer, a point they described as meaningful in the broader media landscape. (Source: VDud interview on the VDud channel.)
Following the broadcast, Vadim Tsyganov indicated that Gazmanov’s public profile appeared to suffer in some circles, with the musician being added to a perceived blacklist by certain viewers and broadcasters. Meanwhile, Tsyganova’s public congratulations on Channel One were reportedly affected by the wider conversation sparked by the interview. On October 28, Tsyganova shared clips from the interview on her Telegram channel, urging followers not to view the material if it had been produced by a neural network, signaling concerns about authenticity and manipulation in media. (Source: VDud interview coverage and related social posts.)
In a broader context, the exchange reflects how artistic figures navigate loyalty, national sentiment, and public accountability during tense periods. It also illustrates how media personalities, fans, and industry colleagues respond when celebrities weigh in on political matters. The dialogue underscores a tension between artistic freedom and social responsibility, suggesting that audiences expect artists to articulate clear positions when geopolitical issues are at the forefront. The conversation did not merely reassess a single artist; it points to a larger conversation about role, influence, and the impact of public statements on a performer’s career and public perception. (Attribution: VDud interview materials.)