Renowned Russian Artist Bedros Kirkorov Passes Away at 92
The loss leaves a profound impact on the Russian entertainment community, with tributes pouring in from fans and fellow artists alike.
On March 18, 2025, Bedros Kirkorov, the esteemed People's Artist of the Russian Federation, died at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by many in the industry. His son, the famous singer Filipp Kirkorov, shared the tragic news, expressing deep sorrow on his Instagram. "I am no longer a child. Today, March 18, 2025, at 15:37, my father, People's Artist of Russia Bedros Kirkorov, left this world, but you will never leave my heart," he wrote.
In recent years, Kirkorov faced significant health challenges. Earlier this year, reports indicated that he suffered from severe shortness of breath. Doctors identified him with bilateral pneumonia and drained about a liter of fluid from his lungs, a procedure that necessitated a week's hospitalization. Despite being discharged around the holidays, Kirkorov continued to require support and care due to declining health, struggling to walk and talk without assistance.
Kirkorov’s legacy is filled with moments of kindness and artistry that resonated with his peers. Actress Larisa Dolina reflected on their long friendship, recalling his immense love for his son Filipp and his kind-hearted nature. "I knew him as a very talented and soulful person who never held a grudge against his son. Bedros led a beautiful and dignified life, and he was an example for his son. He possessed great talent and optimism, qualities Filipp inherited," she remarked.
Lev Leshchenko, a fellow artist and longtime friend of Kirkorov, spoke fondly of their enduring connection that dates back to their time as students at GITIS. "He was our friend, and we walked through life together. Never did he speak ill of anyone. Bedros was a reasonable and talented person — a good musician and singer," Leshchenko praised.
Industry figures such as TV host Vyacheslav Makarov and actress Ekaterina Guseva also extended their condolences. Makarov acknowledged the tremendous loss of a wonderful person, while Guseva expressed the pain of losing someone who had such a zest for life. "This is difficult to read, and painful. How he loved life! And life loved him!" she wrote, emphasizing Kirkorov’s optimistic spirit.
Commenting on Kirkorov's influence, musician Sergey Sosedov remarked on the significant mark he left on Russian culture. "He lived a good life of 92 years and created a beautiful legacy. He was a lovely and kind person, and his impact on the music scene will not be forgotten," Sosedov asserted.
Born on June 2, 1932, in Varna, Bulgaria, Bedros Kirkorov was raised in an Armenian family. He was dedicated to music from a young age, completing a technical degree as a shoemaker-modeler and graduating from music school at 17. He later joined the military, singing in an ensemble, and then worked at the Varna Opera Theater. His talent led him to Moscow in 1962, where he entered the second year of GITIS and later performed with the Moscow Philharmonic and other prestigious institutions.
Kirkorov’s artistic contributions led to him being awarded the Honored Artist title in 1992 and the distinguished People's Artist title in 2012. Throughout his life, he remained an active performer, touring various cities and countries until he was 85. Despite facing health setbacks, including hospitalization for pneumothorax and complications related to COVID-19, he maintained a vibrant connection to music and his audience.
His personal life was marked by challenges too. Bedros married twice; his first wife, Victoria Likhacheva, gave birth to his son Filipp in 1967. Likhacheva tragically passed away in 1994 after battling cancer. Kirkorov then married researcher Lyudmila Smirnova in 1997, but they divorced years later, shortly before his death. Bedros was also a loving grandfather to two grandchildren, Alla-Victoria and Martin, who represent a new generation of artistic endeavor.
Kirkorov passed away due to acute heart failure, compounded by complications from pneumonia. His funeral is scheduled to take place on March 21 at Troekurovsky Cemetery, a final farewell as family and friends gather to honor the life of a man who was more than just an artist; he was a beloved figure in Russian culture.
The waves of condolences from the entertainment community reflect the deep respect and admiration Kirkorov inspired during his lifetime. As tributes continue to arise, the memory of Bedros Kirkorov as a warm-hearted, talented presence will live on in the hearts of many.
