Valerii Khait, one of the most beloved figures of Odessa's comedy scene and the veteran captain of KVN, passed away on February 1 at the age of 86. His farewell took place on February 4 at the Theater of Musical Comedy named after Mikhail Vodianoy, gathering family, friends, and fans who came to pay their respects to the man who embodied the spirit of humor and culture in Odessa.
The theater foyer was filled to capacity as attendees shared stories of Khait’s contributions to humor, illustrating why he was often regarded as the city's cultural cornerstone. Close friends and colleagues expressed their deep admiration and sorrow. Grigory Baratz reminisced about the time he, along with others, carried Khait on their shoulders through the streets of Odessa after his team won the KVN championship back in 1972. “I think now, with the passing of Zhvanetsky, Golubovsky, and Valera, their meeting will be both joyful and witty,” Baratz shared, emphasizing Khait's unique approach to humor, which married sophistication with light-heartedness.
Khait had been battling illness for some time, with illness often deepening concerns among his friends and admirers. Alexander Galias, who was en route to the memorial, noted the recent harsh circumstances surrounding Odessa, remarking, “I am afraid this last bombardment was too much for him.” Despite their attempts to maintain optimism, many acknowledged the toll war and loss had taken on the community.
During the ceremony, emotional tributes paid homage to Khait’s legacy. His son, Rostislav Khait, spoke touching words, recounting his father's final moments and expressing gratitude for Khait’s influence on the lives around him. Rostislav reflected, “He taught us not only to believe but to infuse everything with humor, even the toughest moments.” Khait’s life was punctuated by his roles as the captain of the famed Odessa KVN teams from 1966 to 1971, and as the founder of the Odessa Gentlemen's Club, both key institutions within the comedic arts of the city.
Vladimir Filyamonov, another KVN veteran, contributed to the memorialization, stating, “With Khait, we lost not just a brilliant author and editor but someone who guided and shaped generations of humorists.” His contributions extended beyond comedy; Khait was also the artistic director of the television show “Gentleman Show” from 1986 to 1990, which showcased humor and creativity from various performers.
The circumstances of Khait's later life were steeped with personal tragedy; his elder son, Eugene, had passed away just before him, complicate matters for the grieving family. Filyamonov conveyed the harsh emotional reality: “Our hearts are heavy, and yet we are grateful for his remarkable life.”
One of the most touching moments of the farewell was the sound of applause echoing through the theater as Khait was officially honored, marking not just the end of his life but the loss of an entire era of comedy. His friends and family vowed to keep his memory alive by sharing his stories and maintaining the laughter he depicted.
The funeral continued to Taivor Cemetery after the service, with attendees recalling fond memories, laughter, and the indelible impact of Khait's humor on their personal lives. Galias, after attending the memorial, expressed hope: “We must do everything we can to keep his illustrious name alive, at least here in Odessa.” Valerii Khait will forever remain ingrained within the fabric of Odessa’s culture, as the community continues to cherish the spirit of jest and optimism he left behind.
Odessa mourns the loss of Valerii Khait deeply, not just as a comedic icon but as a cherished pillar of the city's rich cultural legacy. His contributions to humor, his ability to connect the community through laughter, and expert storytelling will undoubtedly be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.