October 14, 2024

I'm With the Banned


I'm With the Banned
Ivan Urgant, a TV host "banned" in Russia.  Okras, CC BY-SA 4.0  via Wikimedia Commons

A Russian government list acquired by Verstka names 79 performers currently banned from advertising campaigns and promotion of Russian brands. In addition, music by these performers is banned from being played at public events.

These performers are mostly Russian, but also include Americans like Beyonce, Lana del Rey, and Metallica. Among Russians on the list are television host Ivan Urgant, singer Natalia Podolskaya, and rapper GeeGun, all of whom have been outspoken against Russia's War on Ukraine and against Vladimir Putin. 

This list has been distributed among Russian advertising and event agencies. Verstka's sources in the advertising industry claim that appearing on the list could affect contracts with brands and invitations to take part in public events such as talk shows, awards, and film premieres. 

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