Today : Feb 26, 2025
Arts & Culture
26 February 2025

Ukrainian Celebrities Navigate Love And Career Amid Conflict

From TESLENKO's Eurovision aspirations to family struggles, Ukrainian stars are adapting to challenging times.

Ukrainian Singer TESLENKO Advances To Eurovision 2025 Final

Ukrainian pop sensation TESLENKO is making waves as he advances to the final selection for the Eurovision 2025 contest to represent San Marino. This exciting development was confirmed via TESLENKO's Instagram, where he announced his upcoming participation. Previously, the singer had opted out of the Ukrainian National Selection, marking a strategic shift in his career focus.

Set to showcase his talent on March 8 during the finale, TESLENKO will perform his new song "Storm," which poetically captures the essence of love likened to the intensity of a storm. This performance is not just significant for the singer personally, but also for his fans, as it showcases his creative evolution and desire to represent Ukraine on an international stage.

TESLENKO’s decision to withdraw from the Ukrainian National Selection was reported earlier, citing discomfort with the competition after the controversy surrounding fellow participant Enleo, who had faced backlash for listening to Russian artists. While the rules initially prevented the termination of his participation, the situation escalated, and the Public Service broadcast agreed to TESLENKO's management's request for withdrawal, effective December 27, 2024. Shortly thereafter, TESLENKO announced his participation in the San Marino competition, claiming his entry is "imbued with Ukrainian motifs and the spirit of the nation," aligning his ambitious career path with national pride.

Oleg Skrypka: Family and Relationships During Crisis

Meanwhile, Oleg Skrypka, the lead singer of the well-known Ukrainian band Vopli Vidopliassova, has opened up about his family life amid the trials of war. Speaking to the project "33 Questions," Skrypka expressed his gratitude for his wife, Natalia, who stayed by his side and chose to remain in Kyiv during the early days of the full-scale invasion. He believes her decision was pivotal to the health of their relationship.

"War is a significant stressor. It's genuinely challenging for people to stay rational and united during these times," Skrypka shared. His insistence for his family to leave Kyiv was met with defiance from them; they chose togetherness over relocation, and Skrypka acknowledges this strength preserved their family bond during tumultuous moments.

The musician humorously noted how political disagreements, particularly surrounding former U.S. President Donald Trump, can ignite disputes, showcasing even celebrities face common marital challenges. Skrypka’s eldest son, Roman, is pursuing history and archaeology studies, whereas his younger son, Ustim, is exploring his talents in music. His two daughters, 14-year-old Olesya and 12-year-old Zoryana, continue their education amid the conflict.

"The youngest son, Ustim, is carving out his own artistic identity. I support him, but he prefers to find his own way," Skrypka remarked. This candid glimpse reveals not only the challenges of balancing family life with professional obligations but also the shared resilience of Ukrainians amid adversity.

Yanina Soklova Reflects on Divorce and New Beginnings

Another poignant narrative emerges from journalist Yanina Soklova, who spoke to Alina Dorotyuk about her divorce from banker Vladimir Litvin. Soklova clarified the misconceptions floating around—including rumors of their split being fabricated to facilitate travel abroad for him. Their relationship officially ended in 2022, and both are now moving forward with new beginnings.

"There have been various rumors about my personal life, and I strive to keep it separate from public scrutiny. I want people to focus on significant issues, like the war and the support for our country," she expressed, emphasizing the importance of addressing current events over personal narratives.

Soklova is raising her two sons, Nikolai and Miron, amid the challenges posed by the war, underlining her focus on family stability and nurturing her children through these difficult times. She acknowledged their temporary stay abroad, but confirmed they have since returned and are with her.

These stories resonate deeply with the Ukrainian audience, reflecting both the personal struggles and successes of those who choose to remain resilient amid the chaos of war. Each artist is not only advancing their career but also representing the spirit of Ukraine—undaunted and hopeful—through their lives and work.

The narratives from TESLENKO, Skrypka, and Soklova collectively depict the essence of Ukrainian celebrity life, underscored by themes of resilience, family bonds, and national pride during challenging times. Their contributions and stories inspire many, as they navigate through their careers and personal lives shaped by the unique realities of being Ukrainian artists today.