January 16, 2026 Why The Mask Format Proved Stronger Than Classic Reality Shows

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The Masked Singer format, on which the Russian "Mask" is based, attracts attention not only with its vocal performances, but also with its built-in detective element.

The viewer is literally invited to become a participant in the process: deciphering the participant's identity, collecting clues, comparing clues, and constructing their own theories. As a result, viewing ceases to be passive. It becomes an intellectual game that continues off-air.

Unlike most reality shows, which focus solely on talent or the drama of personal stories, the format of "The Mask" adds a distinct cognitive challenge for the audience. Viewers don't simply evaluate performances, but are engaged in the process of analysis and guessing. This maintains attention and encourages return to new episodes. This is why "The Mask" has aired for seven seasons on NTV, consistently achieving strong ratings.

The new season premieres on February 8 at 8:20 PM. Don't miss it.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

January 15, 2026 New modern lanterns on the Fontanka River embankment formed a unified lighting ensemble in the center of St. Petersburg.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The modernization of the outdoor lighting system on the Fontanka River embankment from Pestelya Street to Kutuzov Embankment has been completed. Outdated sodium lamps have been replaced with 23 modern LED luminaires. The energy-efficient light sources are mounted on elegant cast-iron brackets attached to the building facades. The lighting system is controlled remotely from the Lensvet control center.

"The Fontanka Embankment is one of the most beloved strolling areas for St. Petersburg residents and visitors. It offers unparalleled views of landmarks such as the Summer Garden, the Engineers' Castle, and the Neva River panorama. Specialists designed the equipment with the architectural features of the neighborhood in mind, seamlessly integrating modern technology into the surrounding historic buildings. The new streetlights create a unified lighting ensemble for this section of the Fontanka Embankment and the surrounding streets of Tchaikovsky, Gagarinskaya, and Solyanoy Lane, where nearly 400 new lights were installed in 2021."

Alexander Beglov, Governor of St. Petersburg

The project was implemented under an agreement between the Government of St. Petersburg and PJSC Gazprom on the development of urban infrastructure and the socio-economic development of the Northern Capital.

"We are continuing our large-scale improvement program in collaboration with the Government of St. Petersburg. Since 2007, Gazprom has been systematically and consistently developing a comfortable urban environment while preserving St. Petersburg's unique historical heritage. Before the New Year, the Mikhailovsky (Engineers') Castle received new architectural and artistic illumination. Earlier this year, on Christmas Eve, the St. Nicholas Naval Cathedral of the Epiphany acquired a vibrant new evening appearance. We were delighted to offer such a gift to St. Petersburg residents and visitors for the New Year holidays. And now we have completed the renovation of the Fontanka Embankment's lighting."

Alexey Miller, Chairman of the Management Committee of PJSC Gazprom

In recent years, the company has been systematically involved in the improvement of St. Petersburg, paving sidewalks with granite slabs, upgrading and replacing outdoor lighting, and installing architectural and artistic lighting. In 2025, lighting fixtures were replaced on Chernyshevsky Prospekt, Kirochnaya Street, Sampsonievsky Bridge, and Rubinstein Street. In recent years, architectural lighting has been installed at the apartment buildings of Pyotr Weiner and Robert Wege, the Elizaveta Buturlina mansion, Palace Square, Trinity Bridge, and the Betancourt Bridge. Work is currently underway to upgrade the outdoor lighting at two more sites.

In total, with Gazprom's participation, more than 100 streets, squares, embankments, and plazas have been reconstructed in St. Petersburg, and over 26,000 modern lighting fixtures have been installed.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

January 15, 2026: Esteem on Screen: How Investigators Help Create TV Series

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Officers talk about their daily lives, edit their lines, and often share their uniforms—their uniforms, literally, are often featured in the film. Current officers of the Investigative Committee of Russia are not only professional consultants but also inspirations for films.

One of NTV's hits, the detective show "First Department," was created with the support of the Investigative Committee of Russia, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary today.

"By filming in real investigative departments, we, as the creators of the series, are able to observe firsthand the work of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation. These details, even the smallest ones, are crucial—after all, it's through them, for example, through the characters' attire and mannerisms, that the viewer senses the truth. We greatly appreciate having consultants from the Investigative Committee of Russia on hand to assist us."

Irina Petrik, costume designer for the series "First Department," produced by Triix Media

"The First Department" has been recognized as the best series on Russian television over the past four years by 18 viewers. Its impact lies in its authenticity: vibrant, recognizable characters are as close as possible to the real employees.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

January 14, 2026 The red ribbon is the main element of the new identity of Radio ENERGY

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

GPM Radio (part of Gazprom-Media Holding) and Artemy Lebedev Studio completed the task of redesigning the radio station's visual identity to be as pleasing to the eye as it is to the ear. One of Russia's most popular radio stations* entered 2026 completely redesigned. It is now Radio ENERGY (NRG), with a new logo, stylish elements, and memorable typography.

"We've been developing the brand for 20 years and have made it truly famous. Our shows have won numerous prestigious awards, and our off-air projects attract thousands of viewers and receive a huge media response. Now it's time for new achievements. The station's logo and musical design have changed, but our spirit of drive and trendy sound remain unchanged. This isn't a rebranding for the sake of rebranding, but a reimagining of what modern radio should be – bright, bold, and relatable."

Vadim Tereshchuk General Director of GPM Radio

Radio ENERGY infuses listeners with vital energy and becomes their gateway to contemporary, trendy music, giving everyone the opportunity to feel like a citizen of the world. The station is chosen by 3.4 million Russians daily, with a weekly reach of over 9.2 million*, ranking among the top 5 in Russia among its target audience**. Its average listener is a young woman aged 35. She is athletic, takes care of her health, leads an active lifestyle, and enjoys a vibrant atmosphere and top hits, and Radio ENERGY embodies this vibe. The updated visuals convey the station's contemporary character while maintaining its recognizability and appeal to its audience. The main element is a stylized red ribbon, perceived as a wave of energy and symbolizing the continuous flow of music.

"Our challenge was to relaunch the brand, make it vibrant, vibrant, modern, and recognizable. We couldn't do without art. The result is beautiful, spectacular, and emotional. The message is one: energy. The flowing, endless ribbon that forms the letters of the logo, like a Möbius loop, is very energetic and cool. This logo is good not only in static form but also in animation."

Artemy Lebedev, a renowned Russian designer and blogger

The new logo is an energetic flow, encapsulated in three recognizable letters (NRG). The color palette features the signature red and black, with large, soft, and flowing letters formed by the curves of the ribbon. The logo aligns with the slogan "Only the Best Music" and is harmonious in both vertical and horizontal versions, and also looks good in monochrome.

* Mediascope, Radio Index – Russia 100, April-September 2025, 12 ** Mediascope, Radio Index – Russia 100, April-September 2025, 25-45 years

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

On January 13, 2026, Mikhail Mishustin awarded an NTV correspondent with the Russian Government Prize.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The award is given for significant professional achievements in the field of journalism and media.

Ilya Ushenin has been a war correspondent since 1999 and has been with NTV since 2008. Originally from Yekaterinburg, he began his career at the age of 19 on Channel Four, covering the second Chechen campaign.

He spent almost two years of his life in the SVO zone.

"We visited tank crews near Donetsk. We brought them triangle-shaped letters from schoolchildren in the Rostov region. The children's messages contained words of encouragement, such as 'Dear soldier, take care and come back.' The soldiers were taking Maryinka, having just returned from a mission—their faces and hands blackened with soot. I remember the moment vividly: the tank crewman takes the letter with trembling, dirty hands, carefully unfolds it, trying not to stain it, and reads it aloud, tears dripping from his dark face. Military personnel really appreciate it when someone from the rear supports them," Ilya Ushenin recounted about his work in the SVO zone in 2024.

Representatives of Gazprom-Media Holding companies regularly receive this prestigious award: over the past three years, 17 employees of NTV, Avtoradio, and Children's Radio have received it.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

On January 12, 2026, Cheburashka 2 topped the Russian box office during the New Year holidays.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The family blockbuster's box office receipts have already reached 5 billion rubles. The film was seen by 9.3 million viewers* during the winter holidays.

The film also became a record holder:

The highest pre-sales, the fastest billion-dollar film in the Russian box office, the highest first day, and the highest daily revenue.

Starring: Sergey Garmash, Elena Yakovleva, Olga Kuzmina, Fyodor Dobronravov, Polina Maksimova, Sergey Lavigin, Dmitry Lysenkov, and others. Directed by Dmitry Dyachenko.

"Cheburashka 2" was released on January 1st. The film's distributor is Central Partnership (part of Gazprom-Media Holding).

* according to EAIS data

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

On January 12, 2026, Prostokvashino grossed 2 billion rubles at the box office and became one of the main films of the New Year holidays.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

The family film "Prostokvashino" surpassed the 2 billion ruble box office mark and attracted over 4 million moviegoers, according to the Unified Automated Information System (UAIS). Following the New Year holidays, the film became the second most popular holiday film and the highest-grossing project in the history of the Andreasyan Brothers Film Company.

The film was released on January 1st and maintained a strong box office position throughout the holiday season, demonstrating the continued interest of family audiences across the country. The project was produced by the Andreasyan brothers' film company in partnership with Gazprom-Media Holding, Soyuzmultfilm, and the TNT television channel.

The story centers on a boy nicknamed Uncle Fyodor, who, along with his cat Matroskin and dog Sharik, travels to the village of Prostokvashino, where adventures, trials, and important discoveries await. The film stars Pavel Priluchny, Liza Moryak, Ivan Okhlobystin, Roman Pankov, Vladimir Sychev, Timur Batrutdinov, Tatyana Orlova, and other popular actors. Anton Tabakov, Pavel Derevyanko, Daria Blokhina, and others voiced the animated characters.

"Two billion rubles in box office receipts and four million satisfied moviegoers are, above all, a sign of audience trust. We're grateful to viewers for choosing Prostokvashino during the New Year holidays and spending time with our characters. This result is proof that we're doing the right thing with large-scale family projects. And we don't intend to stop: right now, while the rest of the country is on holiday, we're already working on new films so that our audiences can soon see Umka, the sequel to The Wizard of Oz, and countless other heartwarming yet thoroughly modern family stories."

Tina Kandelaki, Deputy General Director of Gazprom-Media Holding

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

On January 12, 2026, Alexander Zharov congratulated Daria Pugacheva, Director of the Research Department at Gazprom-Media Holding, on her birthday.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

"As a true expert and insightful leader in media analytics, your hard work and talent are integral to the success of our Holding. Thanks to your work, which requires the highest qualifications and deep industry knowledge, we clearly see the right course in the ever-changing ocean of the media business. I wish you continued professional achievements, impeccable health, and personal well-being!" Alexander Zharov, CEO of Gazprom-Media Holding

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

January 1, 2026: Cheburashka 2: Five Interesting Facts from the Filming

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Mountains of fake sweets, vibrant costumes, and traditional oranges—Cheburashka 2 is a true visual attraction, assembled from thousands of details. Together, they transform the film into a cozy world you'll want to return to.

The mountains of sweets at Sonya's birthday party were a masterpiece of engineering. The desserts melted in the sun, so some were remade with foam. Each cake was color-tested to ensure perfect fit in the frame, and transparent caps protected the sweets from the rain.

Rimma (Elena Yakovleva) retained her status as the leading fashionista – she had a unique costume made for each scene.

To ensure a natural sound, Olga Kuzmina (the voice of Cheburashka) actually ate oranges during recording.

The film's distinctive feature is its dynastic casting. Valera was played by the Dobronravovs, father and son, and the Hunter by the Lykovs. This resulted in a rare continuity of characters in film.

For Sonya's birthday scene, artists created over 200 costumes for the extras.

The family blockbuster "Cheburashka 2" was released on January 1st. The film's distributor is Central Partnership (part of Gazprom-Media Holding). The first installment grossed 6.787 billion rubles, becoming the highest-grossing Russian film of all time.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

January 1, 2026: Actors explained why filming at Prostokvashino is a professional dream.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Gazprom – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Fairy tales seem like a simple genre. However, the acting community believes they're more challenging to play than dramas. You understand the magical world around you, but you have to perform it for real. That's why each role is so special.

We asked the actors of Prostokvashino what participating in this project means to them.

A fairy tale is a separate story, the pinnacle of artistic creativity, – Ivan Okhlobystin (postman Pechkin).

The role of Uncle Fyodor's mother is a gift. I'm simply a lucky person, – Liza Moryak (Uncle Fyodor's mother).

It was a great pleasure to play such a role and show the film to my children, – Pavel Priluchny (Uncle Fyodor's father).

The film based on the story by Eduard Uspensky is now in theaters!

The project was created by the Andreasyan brothers' film company in partnership with Gazprom-Media Holding, Soyuzmultfilm, and the TNT television channel. The producers were Gevond and Sarik Andreasyan, Tina Kandelaki, Boris Khanchalyan, Arkady Vodakhov, Marina Razumova, and Yuliana Slashcheva.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.