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Ivan Urgant’s TV comeback in Russia hinges on Putin’s approval

From cancelled shows to high-level lobbying, Urgant’s fate reveals Russia’s media power struggles. Can his star power outshine political hurdles?

Here we can see persons are having a conversation and in the background we can see a few people who...
Here we can see persons are having a conversation and in the background we can see a few people who are sitting on a chair. This is a television and this is a roof with lighting arrangement.

Ivan Urgant’s TV comeback in Russia hinges on Putin’s approval

Russian TV host Ivan Urgant could soon return to broadcasting after high-profile figures pushed for his comeback. His late-night show, Evening Urgant, was abruptly cancelled on Channel One in February 2022. Since then, public appeals and behind-the-scenes efforts have kept his name in the spotlight.

In December 2025, media reports claimed that senior officials were lobbying for Urgant’s return. Among them were Sergei Kiriyenko, first deputy head of the presidential administration, and Yury Ushakov, Putin's foreign policy adviser. Their involvement suggested strong institutional support for bringing the popular host back to Russian TV.

Urgant’s future on Russian TV remains uncertain despite high-level backing. His upcoming concerts abroad show he still draws large audiences. For now, his return depends on whether officials can sway Putin's decision.

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