On April 12, 2025, the Russia 1 TV channel aired a special episode of the show "Hello, Andrey!" hosted by Andrey Malakhov, dedicated to Cosmonautics Day. Among the featured guests was Ivan Dyatlov, a singer from Vichuga, who expressed his gratitude for the heartfelt evening on social media. "Our cosmic release of 'Hello, Andrey!'. Thank you to Andrey Malakhov and the entire team for such a soulful evening," Dyatlov wrote on his VKontakte page.
During the show, Dyatlov performed the poignant song "Do You Know What Kind of Guy He Was," composed by Alexandra Pakhmutova and Nikolai Dobronravov after the tragic death of Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space. Dyatlov's performance was met with enthusiasm, as Malakhov noted that he was invited to sing by popular demand from viewers.
In a touching moment, Malakhov inquired about the health of Dyatlov's grandmother, Albina Ivanovna, who raised him, and together they sent her greetings across the nation. Dyatlov reflected on the significance of Gagarin's name in his life, recalling how he first sang the song at the age of ten. "I remember this song from my childhood; I first sang it at nine years old and was already touched by the story of the first cosmonaut's life. To me, he is the image of a guy from our yard," he shared.
Meanwhile, on April 14, 2025, the same channel will premiere the eight-episode series "Admiral Kuznetsov," depicting the life of the youngest People's Commissar in Soviet history. Igor Petrenko stars in the lead role, bringing to life the historical figure of Nikolai Kuznetsov, who played a crucial role in the Soviet Navy during World War II.
The series will showcase significant historical events that shaped Kuznetsov's life, particularly as he prepared the fleet for the impending threat of war. In the first episode, viewers will witness Kuznetsov's realization that a sudden German airstrike could decimate the fleet stationed in ports. Defying orders from Stalin, he takes decisive action to ensure the fleet is battle-ready.
As the series unfolds, it will depict Kuznetsov's challenges during the daily bombings of Moscow and Leningrad, as he attempts to evacuate the Baltic Fleet from Tallinn to Kronstadt amidst fierce opposition. The tension escalates as the front lines draw closer to Tallinn, with the enemy laying deep-sea mines to trap Soviet ships.
In the second episode, Kuznetsov's efforts to evacuate the fleet are thwarted by the commander of the ground defenses in Tallinn, Kliment Voroshilov, leading to a daring plan of action. The series also explores Kuznetsov's personal life, including the challenges he faces at home with his wife, Vera, and his former spouse, Natalia, who has returned with their son.
Throughout the series, viewers will witness the harrowing decisions Kuznetsov must make to protect both his fleet and his family. The narrative spans multiple episodes, detailing critical moments such as the siege of Sevastopol and the struggle to maintain supply lines to besieged cities like Leningrad.
As the series progresses, Kuznetsov's character is portrayed as a courageous and determined leader, facing not only external threats but also internal conflicts within the military command. The stakes are high as he navigates the complexities of wartime leadership while striving to protect his loved ones.
Filmed on actual ships, including the cruiser "Mikhail Kutuzov" launched in the 1950s, the series promises an authentic depiction of naval warfare and the historical context surrounding Kuznetsov's decisions. The premiere of "Admiral Kuznetsov" is set for April 14, with new episodes airing from Monday to Thursday at 21:30.
As the world remembers the legacy of Yuri Gagarin on Cosmonautics Day, Dyatlov's heartfelt tribute and the gripping tale of Admiral Kuznetsov remind viewers of the profound impact of history and personal stories intertwined with national pride.
