Film director and producer Nikita Mikhalkov has shared an update on his health after a period of hospitalization. In a message published on his Besogon Telegram channel, he confirmed that his treatment is ongoing and that he continues medical examinations during his hospital stay.
The post quoted him saying he has pressed on with tests and necessary therapies while in care. Mikhalkov expressed gratitude to supporters, noting the overwhelming volume of well-wishes from fans and friends alike.
“Dear friends, I am grateful to everyone who has shown concern during these days. The number of health messages has been remarkable. It has helped me understand the difference between popularity and genuine affection,” the director wrote.
He also urged followers to monitor his health updates on his channel, noting that information about him in the media and on social networks is often scarce and inconsistent.
Earlier in January, reports surfaced that Mikhalkov was hospitalized on January 5 with symptoms resembling influenza. Sources indicated that he did not seek medical help for two days after his initial symptoms appeared.
According to broadcast insiders, the producer arrived at the hospital with a fever around 39.9°C, a severe cough, and stomach pain. Another Telegram channel later claimed he tested positive for COVID-19 and suggested complications linked to a preexisting heart condition. Representatives of Mikhalkov provided no official confirmation regarding these rumors. Some media outlets warned that staying out of hospital care could have led to a more serious cardiac event, should the situation have worsened.
On January 9, state information agencies reported that Mikhalkov remained in intensive care. That same day, another publication indicated a positive coronavirus test. Reports from various outlets linked the timeline to late December and events surrounding a public farewell to composer Eduard Artemyev, with which Mikhalkov had both professional and personal ties.
The health updates drew attention from high levels of leadership. Vladimir Putin’s press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, stated on January 10 that the president is kept informed about Mikhalkov’s condition and that well-wishes and prayers accompany those efforts. The Kremlin spokesperson emphasized regular monitoring of the artist’s health and expressed hopes for a speedy recovery.
Religious leaders also weighed in. On January 6, the Russian Orthodox Church announced that Patriarch Kirill of Moscow and All Russia would offer prayers for Mikhalkov’s health. Vladimir Legoyda, head of the church’s public relations department, described a ceremonial gesture involving a holy tradition intended to impart spiritual support during the hospital stay.
In a broader context, Mikhalkov has previously discussed health and public health policy. In 2021, he confirmed vaccination against the coronavirus and articulated a belief in vaccines as a fighting chance against illness. He later referenced a controversial remark from a Besogon program, noting a belief that public health measures should be grounded in personal responsibility and scientific guidance.
As updates continue to emerge, supporters and observers alike await further information on Mikhalkov’s recovery. The director has a long history of public engagement, both through his films and his media appearances, and his health status remains a matter of interest across audiences in Russia and beyond.
Throughout the episode, the family of Mikhalkov and his team have remained cautious in sharing details, while official channels provide periodic notes to keep the public informed. The situation highlights the challenges of disseminating accurate health information in a rapid, media-saturated environment, where rumors can proliferate almost as quickly as verified news.