Philipp Kirkorov collapsed mid-performance in Russia, alarming fans and raising concerns about his health. The incident has reignited discussions about the singer’s ongoing struggles with diabetes.
A single moment of imbalance managed to shake the hearts of thousands of fans in the hall – and perhaps also millions of viewers in Russia and beyond. Philipp Kirkorov, “the Russian King of Pop” and one of the most influential figures in the history of the Eurovision Song Contest, fell during his performance at the New Wave music festival in Kazan, Russia. The fall, broadcast live before the audience, became an unforgettable moment – one that raises troubling questions not only about the artist’s health but also evokes concern among his supporters and colleagues.
Kirkorov, 58, captivated the crowd in the opening moments of his show – until drama struck. Media reports that quickly emerged described how physical weakness overcame the star, who for months has been battling Type 2 diabetes. Just in April, he was injured by a firework during another concert, a trauma that triggered further health complications. As a result of his condition, Kirkorov has endured ongoing weakness, constant thirst and pain in his legs.
Doctors had actually recommended that he rest at least until February 2026 – yet, like many great performers, Kirkorov chose to return to the stage too soon. That decision cost him dearly, ending in a collapse in front of a massive audience.
Watch the fall:
A True Diva – Even After the Setback
But those who know Philipp Kirkorov are well aware this is not the end of the story. According to eyewitnesses at the festival, he recovered backstage, rested briefly – and soon returned to the heart of the event, this time as a spectator and a warm supporter of fellow performers.
Jewish Roots and an International Career
Kirkorov’s personal story is no less fascinating than his music. He was born in Bulgaria to an Armenian-Bulgarian father and a Bulgarian-Jewish mother – a fact that adds a special dimension to the devoted fan base he has in Israel.
Beyond his stage performances, Kirkorov became firmly etched in Eurovision history. He represented Russia in 1995 with the song “Kolybelnaya dlya vulkana” (“Lullaby for a Volcano”), finishing only in 17th place, still regarded today as Russia’s lowest-ever placement in the grand final. Despite the setback, he continued to shape Eurovision behind the scenes as a songwriter and producer for entries representing Belarus (2007), Ukraine (2008), Russia (2014, 2016, 2019), and Moldova (2018, 2020, 2021). In doing so, he bridged cultures and helped launch artists who would later become household names.
Russia at Eurovision
“Russian Woman” is the name of the song performed by Manizha in the second semi-final of Eurovision 2021. Russia reached ninth place in the Grand Final with 204 points. Russia has competed in the Eurovision Song Contest 24 times since joining the competition in 1994. To date, Russia has won only once, in 2008, with the song “Believe” performed by singer Dima Bilan. Russia has reached second place four times and third place four times. So far, Russia has failed only once to qualify for the competition’s final. In 2022, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) decided to suspend Russia’s membership until further notice due to its invasion of Ukraine.
Eurovision 2021: This was Russia’s 24th participation in Eurovision. Russia joined the competition in 1994 and won it once, in Eurovision 2008 with the song “Believe” performed by singer Dima Bilan.
