In a somber farewell, the cultural community of Russia bid adieu to the legendary performer Bedros Kirkorov, father of pop sensation Philipp Kirkorov, at a memorial service held on March 21, 2025, at the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow. The ceremony drew numerous attendees, including family, fans, and notable figures from the entertainment world, marking the profound impact Kirkorov made in his lifetime.
Bedros Kirkorov, aged 93, passed away on March 18, 2025, due to long-standing heart problems compounded by complications from two previous COVID-19 infections. His death sent shockwaves through the artistic community, particularly affecting his son Philipp and his grandchildren, 12-year-old Martin and 13-year-old Alla-Viktoria. Philipp received the heartbreaking news while working on a film set in Morocco and immediately returned to Moscow.
During the service, Philipp, visibly distraught and struggling to hold back tears, expressed the depth of his loss, noting, “This is the end of a chapter.” He further revealed how his father had been a steadfast presence in his life, stating, “He lived beautifully and kindly. I am the head of the family now, and I will carry on his legacy.”
The ceremony was attended not only by family but also by well-known celebrities, including singers Igor Krutoy, Anita Tsой, and JONY, alongside influential figures like Dmitry Peskov, press secretary for the Russian President, and Maria Zakharova, official spokesperson for Russia’s Foreign Ministry. Their attendance underscored Bedros’s significance in both the arts and cultural diplomacy.
A heartwarming moment occurred when Philipp's children, Martin and Alla-Viktoria, honored their grandfather. Martin held a bouquet of white roses while his sister reflected on their grandfather’s influence, writing, “Thank you for the love you gave me, grandpa. You’ll always be in my heart.” Their heartfelt tributes added an emotional weight to the proceedings, leaving many attendees with tears in their eyes.
The atmosphere alternated between grief and celebration, as photographs showcasing Bedros’s life were displayed throughout the church, accompanied by recordings of his beloved songs. Celebrated figures from the entertainment industry took turns sharing their fondest memories of Bedros, including Yana Rudkovskaya, who remarked, “He was a rare gem in the industry. Thank you, Bedros, for imparting your talent to Philipp. You supported him until the very end — that’s a true testament of love.”
As the memorial concluded, attendees made their way to Troekurovsky Cemetery for the burial. Philipp stood at the grave with his children, each performing the poignant act of throwing handfuls of soil onto the coffin. This simple yet profoundly emotional gesture encapsulated the deep familial bonds and memories shared.
While many paid their respects, the absence of notable figures like Alla Pugacheva raised eyebrows. Pugacheva, who had a close relationship with Bedros and had referred to him as “father,” did not attend the memorial or publicly comment on his passing. Speculation arose that her absence was tied to personal issues surrounding her husband’s health.
The farewell ceremony highlighted not only Bedros Kirkorov's legacy in entertainment but also his role as a father and grandfather. Philipp stated emphatically, “The show must continue, as is the way of the artist. This passes on to us.” It became evident that Bedros’s spirit would continue to live on through his family and the generations of talent he inspired.
The impact of Bedros Kirkorov’s contributions to music and culture remains immeasurable. A veteran of the war and a proponent of the arts, he will be remembered not only for his talent but also for his humanitarian efforts and support for young artists. As the dust settles on this chapter, the breadth of his influence continues to resonate through the lives of those he touched.
