Stas Vasiliev weighs in on earnings from Solovyov LIVE and the economics of online support
Video creator Stas Vasiliev, who operates under the alias Vasiliev, spoke candidly in a televised interview with Ksenia Sobchak about the pay he received for his work on the Solovyov LIVE channel. The comment he offered was blunt: the sum was not generous by any stretch. He did not disclose the exact figure, but he confirmed it was below the threshold of 100,000 rubles.
Beyond the official paycheck, Vasiliev highlighted a separate stream of revenue generated from his audience during live broadcasts. He revealed that viewer donations had surpassed the journalist Vladimir Solovyov’s earnings on his own channel. In his own words, the donations from followers during the broadcast were more than half the salary that Solovyov reportedly earned through the partnership with the channel. Vasiliev emphasized that, when looking at the broader picture, the live stream contributions could yield more money than the fixed salary, illustrating a shift in how independent presenters monetize their work in this media ecosystem.
The Stas Live program began airing on the Solovyov LIVE channel not long after Vasiliev’s YouTube channel was removed. The show runs three times a week and features commentary on current socio-political events. The format focuses on real-time analysis and discussion, giving viewers access to a stream of opinions that complements traditional news coverage. The program situates itself at the intersection of online influence and established broadcasting, offering alternatives for audiences seeking direct, unfiltered perspectives on ongoing developments.
In previous statements, Vasiliev hinted at scrutiny from authorities related to content published on his YouTube channel. He referenced concerns raised by the Ministry of Interior about terrorism, signaling ongoing tensions around content moderation, platform policy, and regulatory oversight that can shape how on-air talent engages with political topics online. These developments illustrate the broader dynamic in which independent creators navigate digital platforms, state regulation, and the expectations of a diverse audience seeking timely analysis and commentary.
Across the landscape of online media, Vasiliev’s experiences highlight a broader trend: creators are increasingly balancing traditional media roles with independent channels, where audience support—through donations and subscriptions—can significantly influence earnings. This hybrid model allows for more flexible programming, quicker response to current events, and a sense of ownership over one’s content. It also raises questions about compensation norms, the sustainability of salary-based models, and the evolving economics of broadcast-style commentary in a digital environment where viewer engagement can translate directly into revenue.
As the show continues to evolve, observers note the importance of understanding not just the numbers behind a salary, but the broader audience dynamics that fuel online programs. Donor contributions, sponsorships, and audience participation contribute to the overall financial health of programs like Stas Live, shaping how future episodes are produced, what topics are prioritized, and how presenters frame their perspectives on political and social issues. The ongoing dialogue around pay, platform policies, and audience generosity underscores a shifting media economy where independent voices can thrive by connecting directly with viewers who value immediacy, candor, and accessible analysis.