On December 15, 2024, the reality show Stars in the Jungle aired its thirteenth episode, delivering unexpected drama and controversy as popular contestant Alena Blin was eliminated just before the finale. The stakes were high, and contestants were prepared to do whatever it took to secure their place, leading to fierce competition and rising tensions.
The episode opened with a rather light-hearted moment when Alena, known for her initiative and culinary skills, decided to prepare breakfast for her fellow contestants. Her dish of stewed vegetables with beans earned high praise from the group, making her efforts seem well-received. Unfortunately, the goodwill didn't last long. Despite her culinary contributions, singer Natan Mironov publicly declared his intentions to nominate Alena for elimination, showcasing the cutthroat nature of the competition.
Next came the trials of the day, where contestants had to demonstrate courage and precision. They participated in challenges for coins and individual immunity, including jumping from 45 meters on a bungee cord to hit targets. Team members Alana Mamaeva, actors Igor Chekov and Alexander Volokhov, along with blogger Valeria Chekalina (also known as Lerchek), competed fiercely, collectively adding to the prize pool of 1.6 million rubles. The game didn't just test their physical skills; it was as much about social dynamics within the group.
Meanwhile, Natan emerged as the winner of the immunity round played with dominoes, solidifying his position and offering him protection from elimination. This victory seemed to bolster both Natan's and Lerchek's alliances, creating tension among the other competitors.
The voting ceremony became heated as contestants debated openly about loyalty and betrayal, especially surrounding Natan's actions and the likelihood of Alexander Volokhov taking home the win. The results were shocking: Alena received seven out of eight votes against her, including some from her ostensibly supportive friends. This unexpected outcome left Alena stunned, hinting at having orchestrated some hidden strategy behind her elimination.
The elimination duel was set between Alena and Alexander. They faced off through a strenuous challenge involving assembling puzzles, determining coordinates, and throwing sandbags onto designated platforms. Initially, Alena led the competition, but Alexander adapted quickly, eventually securing the victory. Accepting her defeat with grace, Alena exited the stage, leaving behind advice for her friend to trust only Alana Mamaeva.
Alena reflected afterward on her exit, proclaiming on her blog, "Ну что, ваша мамасита покинула шоу, сделав финальный ход королевы... Всегда считала, что, играя в шахматы, для выигрышной комбинации порой нужно пожертвовать самой сильной фигурой." This statement captured the essence of her strategic play throughout the competition, garnering admiration from fans.
Nevertheless, the episode didn't just focus on Alena's exit; it also highlighted mounting controversies involving Natan. After the episode aired, he took to the media, voicing his concerns about how he was depicted. "Я вижу и знаю все свои ошибки, но хочу вам рассказать и про обратную сторону медали…" he stated, asserting the editing had shaped public perception negatively by only showcasing certain events. Natan expressed frustration with the portrayal of his relationships and implied misconduct by other contestants, adding fuel to the fire.
Reality TV often blurs the line between entertainment and actual relationships, and this episode introduced both strategic alliances and betrayals. The fallout from Alena's elimination and the brewing drama with Natan hint at possible shifts within the show's dynamics, leaving viewers speculating about the future interactions among the remaining contestants.
With the exit of formidable players like Alena, the competition has opened up for others. Alena's impact—and her complex relationships within the group—will be analyzed as her absence is felt by viewers and contestants alike. The ripple effects of alliances, strategies, and personal grievances continue to shape the lively environment of Stars in the Jungle.
