The talent show opened with a direct stage on Telecinco, presenting its first semi-final this Tuesday. Among the evening’s most memorable moments was a performance by Zlata Humenko, the young Ukrainian contestant who earned Edurne’s coveted golden pass during the auditions. The girl delivered a dazzling display of movement and control, but what stood out most were her heartfelt words about the harsh reality facing her homeland.
In a moment that blended artistry with personal history, Edurne told the applicant who had earned a place in the finale, “I really wanted to see you again and have fun again, to see you on stage. That’s what makes you happy and I want to see you happy every day of your life.” The mentor described the performance as flawless, praising the dancer’s ability to convey emotion through every step. “You’re an amazing dancer, you express everything you dance with great emotion. It’s a privilege you’ve earned through the show,” she added.
After the exchange, Zlata spoke directly to the audience of Fremantle’s format, sharing a personal dream tied to the competition: reaching the final and ultimately winning. She expressed a hopeful wish to donate any prize money to the Ukrainian army, explaining that the support would help her country defend itself, and that she hoped to return home as soon as possible.
Daniel Martínez acknowledged her poise, applauding the dancer born from Ukrainian ballet. He described her as “a doll” on stage and noted the care she brings to her craft, highlighting the elegance and precision of her performances. Paula Echevarría also joined in, underscoring the impact of her presence on the show.
Risto Mejide offered a stark counterpoint, reflecting on the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. He spoke about nearly 300 days filled with fear and recalled the horror seen on screens. He stressed that, despite the gravity of the situation, beauty, dance, and talent can endure as a form of resilience against adversity.
Zlata’s participation ignited a debate across social media, with many viewers expressing reservations about linking an entertainment program to real-world politics. Some argued that emotional appeals should not determine the spotlight, insisting that talent programming should focus on performance alone. Others defended the moment, noting the power of art to illuminate human stories and raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine. The discussion reflected a broader tension between spectacle and conscience on contemporary talent shows, inviting audiences to consider how emotions and world events intersect on national television.