Margarita Simonyan is set to take over hosting duties on NTV, stepping in for her husband Tigran Keosayan, who is currently hospitalized and remains in a coma due to serious health issues. The show, titled "Ч.Т.Д.", is scheduled to premiere on February 22, 2025, and is dedicated to the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War.
During the announcement of her new role, Simonyan expressed her heartfelt sentiments about her husband’s condition. "Здравствуйте, сограждане! Много лет вы слышали эту фразу от Тиграна Кеосаяна, моего мужа, который вел эту программу на НТВ. К сожалению, он сейчас в коме, и мы уже два месяца ждем возвращения в нашу семью мужа, отца, сына. Пока мы его ждем, я буду вести эту программу," she stated, reflecting on the long-standing tradition her husband established.
Keosayan, who has faced severe heart complications for years, suffered clinical death before falling unconscious. His recent health decline has left viewers and their family concerned, as he has not regained consciousness since first being hospitalized. His distinguished career included hosting the satirical program "Международная пилорама," which aired until December 21, 2024. His absence marks not only a personal loss for the family but also transforms the essence of the broadcast.
The program Simonyan will lead aims to honor the legacies and sacrifices made during World War II, with each episode delving deep through historical narratives curated around significant figures, brave soldiers, and pivotal moments of the conflict. "Программа станет совсем другой, ее решили приурочить к 80-летней годовщине победы в Великой Отечественной войне," said Simonyan, underlining the program's freshly defined title and intent.
Simonyan, who serves as the editor-in-chief for the media group RT, emphasized her commitment to accurately portraying the stories of war heroes with reverence and integrity. She plans to include expert commentary, documentary footage, and poignant literary references to create engaging segments honoring the essence of patriotism and sacrifice. Each broadcast promises to resonate with both historical depth and emotional narratives, reflecting on the human experiences during tumultuous times.
The new format of "Ч.Т.Д." demonstrates more than just entertainment; it cultivates collective remembrance and offers solace and hope during these challenging times. The change of host has stirred emotions among viewers, who have followed Keosayan's career for years. Simonyan's undertaking is not merely professional; it is also personal, as she experiences the emotional strain of waiting for her husband’s recovery.
While the family continues to hope for Keosayan’s return—Simonyan emphasized the importance of family togetherness during his recovery—they are also aware of the public’s interest and concern. Media reports noted the emotional toll this situation has taken on their family, as they navigate through both personal grief and public curiosity about his health status.
With the first episode set to air soon, the pressure and expectations are high for Simonyan to not only fill her husband's shoes but also to carve out her narrative within the show’s new structure. It poses the question of how the broadcast will evolve moving forward, including the challenges of aligning her presentation style with the well-loved format initiated by Keosayan.
Unfortunately, there have been no notable changes to the health conditions of Tigran Keosayan. The family remains optimistic, often sharing their experiences privately and publicly through media engagements. According to reports, the couple has three children, balancing parental responsibilities alongside their current family crisis.
Reflecting on the situation, the hosts’ personal stakes highlight the intersecting lives of journalism, healthcare struggles, and public life—woven through the poignant narratives of the Great Patriotic War. It's set to be both a personal and collective storytelling experience for the audience.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Tigran’s health, Margarita Simonyan’s leadership is poised to make this documentary poignant and respectful, reminding viewers of the bravery demonstrated during the war and the enduring spirit of those who sacrifice for their country. The fusion of personal urgency and historical significance will undoubtedly resonate with many, as audiences across Russia tune in to honor the past and hope for the future.