Russian comedian Maxim Galkin has sparked divided reactions among online users after sharing a new video from his seaside holiday on Instagram, posing in swimming trunks while holding a coconut.
Galkin, who was added to the official register of foreign agents by the Russian Ministry of Justice, published the video on his account on Instagram, a social network owned by Meta, which is recognised as an extremist organization and banned in Russia.
Galkin is a prominent Russian comedian, parody artist, and television presenter known across the Russian-speaking world. He is married to Alla Pugacheva, the iconic Soviet and Russian pop singer often regarded as a legendary figure in regional popular culture.
Mixed social media reaction
Social media users quickly split over the holiday footage. Critics accused the performer of intentionally stretching the video format to make himself appear wider. Several commentators questioned his outfit choices, remarking that everything looked fine except his swimming trunks, suggesting he should go on a diet, and writing that he would soon take off his underwear entirely. One user also asked whether he appeared to have lost something in the clip.
Other followers offered praise, commenting that Galkin had become handsome. Some expressed mock jealousy on behalf of his wife, while others told the comedian that he was spoiling his audience with the new posts.
Allegations of infidelity
Belarusian television presenter Anna Bondarchuk also joined the discussion, raising questions about Galkin's loyalty to his wife, singer Alla Pugacheva. Bondarchuk asked who Galkin was sending signals to and where his sweetheart was. Media reports noted that the comedian was vacationing at the sea without Pugacheva because doctors had forbidden her from staying in the sun. In light of her absence, Bondarchuk questioned who was filming the video and whom Galkin was smiling at so warmly.
This is not the first time Galkin's social media activity has generated debate. He previously posted a video of himself training in a gym, which similarly triggered mixed reactions and arguments among online commentators.
