The vibrant world of reality television saw another dramatic twist last night as the show "Mask" aired its seventh episode of the sixth season on March 23, 2025, on the NTV channel. The episode was dedicated to the memory of the beloved Bedros Kirkorov, who departed from this world on March 18, 2025. The star-studded jury included iconic figures in the Russian music industry such as Philip Kirkorov and Valeria, alongside showman Timur Rodriguez, television presenter Regina Todorenko, and newcomer judge Stas Kostyushkin. The recurring host of the series is Vyacheslav Makarov.
This week’s episode showcased the exhilarating performances of various contestants, including Byk, Dalmatin, and Okun. To kick things off, the charismatic Byk started his act with a unique gift to the audience: edible roses. Rodriguez cheekily noted that those who received fewer roses may decide to vote against Byk in the elimination round.
Following Byk's performance of “Arcade,” he captivated the jury once again, prompting Philip Kirkorov to suggest that the talented performer should aim for Eurovision. “You should consider going to Eurovision. If you’re interested, I’m even ready to write a song for you,” Kirkorov declared emphatically. This bold offer emphasized the high regard in which Byk was held despite the upcoming elimination theater.
Dalmatin also made headlines last night, engaging with the audience by handing out roses to each jury member during her performance. Valeria applauded this daring approach, saying, “What boldness to come so close to us. All masks do everything to avoid being near us, it’s a risk!” This display of gumption clearly resonated well with the jury and the audience alike, keeping Dalmatin safe from the elimination.
As the competition heated up, it was Byk, Dalmatin, and Okun who ended up in the nomination for elimination. The audience voted to save Dalmatin, while the jury made the tough decision to eliminate Byk. As they prepared for the unveiling, the anticipation was palpable. Tanya Rodriguez made predictions about the identity of the performer, guessing Egor Ship, while Todorenko thought it might be Sasha Stoun. Valeria suggested trusting her instincts with YurKiss, but Kirkorov and Kostyushkin went with their gut feeling, correctly identifying Byk as VladiMir, the younger brother of YurKiss. The unmasking of participants typically garners mixed emotions, and last night was no exception.
When VladiMir finally revealed his identity, the audience erupted. “I will be waiting for the promised song, Philip Bedrosovich,” VladiMir expressed, addressing Kirkorov upon taking off his mask. The legendary performer immediately recognized him, saying, “Son, I recognized you right away. You’ve traveled this path splendidly and have opened up to millions of viewers as an artist with enormous potential.”
Interestingly, VladiMir, who is also the son of Vladimir Kiselev, the founder of the rock band Zemlyane, has been out of the public eye for some time, dedicating his efforts to family life after getting married and welcoming a child. Kirkorov's invitation to collaborate further ignited excitement about VladiMir's possible return to the music scene. His previous work included memorable performances in major concert venues across Moscow and collaborations with international artists under the name Vlade Kay.
As the show continues, the audience is primed for more surprises. Other contestants still in the race include Boxer, Vojd, Dalmatin, Ogurechik, Okun, Sokol, Ostrich, and Duck. Voicing his hopes, Kostyushkin playfully presented a bandage with the eyes of a cartoon frog named Pepe in support of Okun, asserting his loyalty to his favorite mask. As contestants give it their all each week, viewers eagerly anticipate who will star next in the magical, masked performances of "Mask." With each elimination, not only do fans mourn the absence of their favorite masked celebs, they also look forward to the surprises waiting just around the corner.
