Ukrainian singer Olga Polyakova has found herself at the center of a scandal over her new music video, “Not the Right Time.” In it, Polyakova appears dressed as Jesus, which has sparked a wave of criticism among Ukrainians. According to "Glavkom," clergy members have also commented on the situation.
Criticism from the Church
The Vicar of the Odessa Diocese of the OCU, Archbishop Viktor (Bykov) of Artsyz, noted that such actions amount to playing with Christian symbols and disrespecting the faith, and are intended from the outset to create a scandal.
“Olya Polyakova’s latest music video, in my opinion, is a peculiar game with Christian symbols, a deliberate desecration, and a form of black marketing designed to provoke scandal and public outcry. The crown of thorns, the image of the ‘Crucifixion,’ and Gospel symbolism are not merely aesthetics or stage props. They are sacred to millions of Christians. “When such images are used in an entertainment context, and with obvious sexualization at that, I perceive this as a profound disrespect for the faith of millions of people, as an insult to the holiest and most life-giving thing in our nation,” Bykov emphasized.
Audience reaction
The archbishop was surprised not only by the video itself, but also by viewers who positively accept such narratives and references to Jesus and faith in an entertainment context.
“The most frightening thing is not the actions of a single artist. Every person is free and is personally accountable to God for their choices. Far more frightening is the silence of those who consider themselves believers. Most of our fellow citizens call themselves Christians. They baptize their children, get married in church, celebrate Easter, come for holy water, and invite priests to bless their homes or cars. But when their own faith is turned into a show, many either remain indifferent or look the other way…”
