On March 18, 2025, the world of music lost one of its brightest stars. Bedros Kirkorov, the legendary Bulgarian-Soviet-Russian singer and father of pop icon Philip Kirkorov, passed away at the age of 92. His son announced the heartbreaking news on social media, writing, "Today, at 15:37, my father, the People's Artist of Russia, Bedros Kirkorov, left us. But he will never leave our hearts. Cherish every moment with your loved ones."
Bedros Kirkorov's life was a symphony of talent, resilience, and love. Born in Varna, Bulgaria, in 1932, he rose from humble beginnings to become a celebrated figure in the world of music. His journey was marked by a deep connection to his roots, a passion for performance, and an unwavering dedication to his family.
Bedros Kirkorov's voice was a bridge between cultures. He sang in Russian, Bulgarian, Georgian, and Italian, captivating audiences across the Soviet Union and beyond. His collaboration with legendary orchestras, including those led by Leonid Utesov and Yuri Silantyev, cemented his place in the pantheon of great performers. Songs like "Alyosha," a tribute to Soviet-Bulgarian friendship, became anthems of an era.
But Bedros was more than a singer; he was a mentor, a father figure, and a beacon of kindness. His influence extended far beyond the stage, shaping the careers of countless artists, including his son Philip, who inherited not only his father's talent but also his warmth and generosity.
In his later years, Bedros faced health challenges, including heart disease and pneumonia, but his spirit remained unbroken. He continued to inspire those around him, sharing his wisdom and love with his grandchildren, Alla-Victoria and Martin, who adored their "dedushka." His bond with Philip grew even stronger after the passing of Philip's mother, Victoria, and the two became inseparable.
Bedros Kirkorov's legacy is not just in the music he left behind but in the lives he touched. He was a man who gave freely of himself, whether through his performances, his charitable work, or his role as a father and grandfather. As Philip Kirkorov once said, "My father was a light, and that light will continue to shine through all of us."
Bedros Kirkorov will be laid to rest at Moscow's Troekurovskoye Cemetery on March 21, 2025. The world mourns the loss of a true artist, but his music—and the love he shared—will echo for generations to come. As the final notes of his life fade, one thing is certain: Bedros Kirkorov's song will never truly end.