In a highly controversial public stance, the Tatarstan Children’s Ombudsman, Irina Volynets, labeled Basta, MakSim, and Yegor Creed as accomplices of Satanism. This remark was expressed by Volynets in a statement carried by a telegraph channel and echoed in subsequent public discussions. The ombudsperson framed her view as a direct response to what she described as troubling influences on children who follow popular entertainment programs.
Volynets argued that these performers have taken on roles as mentors on the televised talent show The Voice Children, broadcast on Channel One. She asserted that the show features individuals whose sexual orientation and vocal abilities raise concerns for the welfare of young viewers. She also drew attention to tattoos visible on the artists and characterized them as creepy, while noting the presence of painted nails and a repertoire she described as unchildish. The Ombudsman indicated these elements send mixed messages to a young audience and contribute to a broader debate about age-appropriate content on family programming.
According to Volynets, she has received messages from concerned parents who worry about the impact of the program on their children. She highlighted that millions of children nationwide watch the show, and that participants hail from various regions across the country. Her concern centered on the effect of audience voting on the outcomes and the potential formation of certain behavioral standards among impressionable viewers. She argued that such programming risks shaping attitudes in ways that clash with traditional values and the social responsibilities expected of public broadcasters. The ombudswoman stressed that the issue goes beyond taste and enters the realm of safeguarding children from content perceived as inappropriate, particularly in the context of ongoing national affairs and military actions in the region.
Volynets made clear her intention to escalate the matter to the authorities if necessary, indicating that there are limited options left to address the situation through existing governance channels. Her statements reflected a broader worry about how popular media can influence child development, especially when the content is coupled with provocative visuals and controversial messaging. The discussion touched on the role of regulatory bodies in monitoring youth programming and the balance between creative freedom and the protection of minors in a landscape shaped by social and political tensions.
Meanwhile, Vitaly Shlyappo, who previously worked as a producer and screenwriter on the film Cheburashka, responded to remarks made by actor and State Duma deputy Dmitry Pevtsov. Pevtsov had described a certain pictured portrayal as a threat to the psyche of a child and called it a terrible sabotage. Shlyappo’s reply offered a counterpoint to the accusation, suggesting that the interpretation of the work as harmful may be overstated and that the artistic intent of filmmakers deserves consideration even in heated public debates. The exchange highlighted the larger conversation about how media productions are evaluated by officials, critics, and audiences when they intersect with concerns about youth protection and cultural values. (Telegraph channel)