Kaleriya Kislova, a pioneering television director who shaped Soviet and Russian broadcasting, has passed away at the age of 99. The news was confirmed by Kristina Levieva, a correspondent for Channel One, who shared the announcement on her Telegram channel, stating, "Today, on May 10, 2025, a legend of national television has passed away. The director of the Vremya program, Kaleriya Venediktovna Kislova, lived 99 years. She was loved and remembered." The cause of her death has not yet been disclosed, and details regarding her funeral will be provided later.
Kislova was born on April 20, 1926, in the village of Kargat in the Novosibirsk region. From a young age, she was drawn to the arts, pursuing her passion for theater by enrolling in GITIS (the Russian Academy of Theatre Arts). After graduating, she worked in various theaters, including the Kazakh Drama Theater, before making her mark in television.
In 1961, Kislova began her television career in Novosibirsk as an assistant director. That same year, she moved to Moscow, where she secured a position in the Youth Editorial Office at Central Television (CT). Her ascent in the industry was swift; by 1974, she had joined the editorial office of the Vremya program, which was a significant news broadcast at the time. Just three years later, she became the chief director of the program, a role she would hold until 2006.
Throughout her illustrious career, Kislova directed the broadcasts of numerous historic events, including the 1980 Olympic Games held in Moscow, the first teleconference between the USSR and the USA, and various parades on Red Square. She was known for her close working relationship with Leonid Brezhnev, the General Secretary of the Communist Party, who referred to her affectionately as "our Miss Television." Kislova's expertise and unique perspective allowed her to capture key moments in Soviet history, making her a trusted figure among the country's leaders.
Her contributions to television were not limited to major events. Kislova was instrumental in preparing the New Year's addresses of the country's presidents, a tradition that remains significant in Russian culture. Her work helped elevate the status of the Vremya program to the main information broadcast in the country, solidifying its importance in the media landscape.
In recognition of her contributions, Kislova was honored with numerous accolades throughout her career. She was awarded the title of Honored Art Worker of the RSFSR in 1985 and received the USSR State Prize in 1977. Her legacy was further commemorated in November 2024 when a commemorative sign was unveiled in her honor at the Gallery of Stars of Russian Television, located at the Ostankino TV Tower.
Even after retiring as chief director in 2006, Kislova continued her involvement with Channel One as a consultant, showcasing her enduring passion for television and her dedication to the industry. Colleagues often praised her professionalism and personal commitment to the field of television journalism, recognizing her as a mentor and an inspiration for many.
Kislova's passing marks the end of an era in Russian television. She witnessed and documented the evolution of the medium over several decades, from the early days of Soviet broadcasts to the modern era of Russian television. Her influence can be seen in the way news is presented today, as she played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of significant historical events.
As tributes pour in from colleagues and fans alike, it is clear that Kaleriya Kislova's impact on television will not be forgotten. She leaves behind a rich legacy, having not only chronicled the history of her nation but also having inspired generations of television professionals. Her work has ensured that the stories of pivotal moments in history are preserved and shared with audiences, a testament to her skill and dedication as a director.
In her lifetime, Kislova was more than just a director; she was a trailblazer who opened doors for women in the industry and set a standard for excellence in television production. As the media landscape continues to evolve, her contributions will resonate, reminding us of the power of storytelling through the lens of a camera.
Kaleriya Kislova's legacy is one of passion, creativity, and commitment to the art of television, and she will be remembered as one of the greats in the history of Russian broadcasting.
