Russia hasn’t formally confirmed that they will take part in Eurovision 2017, but already speculation has started over who will represent the Eurovision power player. Russian actor Vitaliy Gogunskiy has put his name forward, having written a song he wants to take to Kyiv.
Russian media are reporting that Vitaliy has penned a song titled “Butterfly”, which he co-authored with his girlfriend Natasha Klimenkova. Vitaliy says he gave his potential entry to Russian Eurovision guru Philipp Kirkorov, who apparently “liked the song”.
Vitaliy is best known in Russia for his role on the popular sitcom Univer, where he played the goofy university student Eduard “Kuzya” Kuzmin.
Vitaliy also appeared on the Russian version of Dancing with the Stars in 2013, and on the Russian version of Your Face Sounds Familiar in 2014. Vitaliy’s over-the-top celebrity impressions proved a hit, and he won the series.
In 2015, Vitaliy was a contestant on the Russian version of The X Factor, where he made it as far as the top 25 acts.
On the show, he revealed a more serious side of himself, leaving aside his comedy antics for a very straight performance style. He delivered very controlled and emotional performances before his elimination.
Vitaliy’s comedic background might seem an unusual match for Eurovision, but if he was selected, it wouldn’t be the first time a comedian has performed on the Eurovision stage.
In 2014, Armenia sent Aram Mp3, who was known for his humorous covers of popular songs. But when he reached the Copenhagen stage, he had toned down his comedic stylings, and delivered a powerful and heartfelt performance of his song “Not Alone”, which placed fourth in the grand final.
What do you think? Should Russia send Vitaliy Gogunskiy to Eurovision? Can he bring Russia its second victory? Share your thoughts below!
If they send Leningrad Ukrainians will appreciate that. It’s quite popular group here.
If Russia is going to send a comic act, they should send Little Big, Charusha, Leningrad, USB (United Sexy Boys), Valentin Strykalo etc. or one of non-serious folk bands. And if a comedian should represent Russia, I’d like Maxim Averin to take that role https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aVevP5kuQ7o
When I thought Russia could not go further down in their own desperation … voilá … from a sexy hunk able to seduce both the females and the gays … this happens … why not asking Putin to represent the country? He does not have any talent … he does not even need a good song … it’s Russia … all he needs is himself and that’s it. What else would be new anyway? … #facepalm
@PP
Do you know this for sure? I am afraid Russia will prticipate but I hope it won’t.
@Maclaren
I don`t want Aminata represent Russia…
I like Vitaliy and I`d really like to see him at Eurovision!!! It will be great if they will choose him! Yes, he`s an actor, not a singer, but he can sing even better than some Russian “singers”)) 😀
Russia will not participate in 2017, surprise is Belarus will participate in 2017
Russia, don`t do it! It`s the worst choice. In my opinion Russia should select Sergey Lazarev, Egor Kreed, Maksim, Polina Gagarina, Dima Bilan, Nyusha, Nargiz. This comedian actor is bad choice!
I am a Voice fan and heard a rumour that this year Russia will be selecting a Eurovision act from Voice finalists. Mind you there is a gossip that Aminata is in the final. Although there are some strong acts who could be compatible
OMG russia will not take part next year haha :p
Russia, their We Don’t Wanna Put In is coming!
I don’t care at all who will the representative be but what I care about is the songs. I just hope that no matter who will represent each country, that the songs will be as good as they were in 2016 Eurovision!
i’ll vote for him, definitely. *swoon*
Don’t do it! I was considering one of the following (in alphabetical order)…
* IOWA
* Katya Ryabova
* Lerika
* Nyusha
* Polina Gagarina
* Tolmachevy Twins
if russia tries to send a comedy act ukraine could blacklist them tbh :/
Next Top Male Model
No. Just no.
OK…I have been rather bored with the recent generic dull “let’s make a song esp. for ESC” entries from Russia recently….they were a lot more better, more creative and interesting msically during 2000-10…… But a comedy singer? It might be different and we might get something refreshing again….but still. ESC is a serious music contest, the songs are what matters, and I don’t think a comedy singer is apt. OK – Russia kind of did that in 2010, and it worked, because the song was beautiful and heartfelt. And didn’t sound silly. But I think Russia shouldn’t go for that….I… Read more »
One thing is for certin…I don’t care how he looks, and what gays will think. Not at all important! (answer to MTP). many fans are not gay….
OK, he looks hot. He will be a smash among the gay audience. LOL
Everybody, forget the tension!
I would probably send something more subtle like ‘Our-Souls in Ukraine’ Mind you no one can prounounce ‘our souls’ like Jamelea, especially with such emphasis.
I am almost sure Russia is going to organize national selection. Channel 1 cannot take the responsibility of choosing the representative of Russia this year. Despite the fact that there are hundreds of Russian singers who are considered persona non grata in Ukraine and a lot of of artists won’t want to participate in the contest for security reasons, there is a huge variety of options.