The Incident Involving Iryna Horova
Iryna Horova, a Ukrainian producer and founder of the music label Pomitni, sparked public backlash after laughing during an air raid warning that interrupted her interview. The event unfolded in Kyiv while the interview was being recorded, as the alarm for an incoming aerial threat sounded. In response, the interviewer made a joke, asking: 'Is something important flying in, or is it a drone heading toward Brovary?' Horova then burst into loud laughter.
Later, Horova defended her reaction, explaining that the laughter was a psychological defense mechanism triggered by stress. She also referred to Brovary as a conditional direction, which raised further questions and sparked discussion among viewers. Users on the Threads platform highlighted her response, with one commenting:
'I laughed so I wouldn’t cry.'
Role in the Revived 'Star Factory'
Separately, Horova has been appointed as a judge for the revived 'Star Factory' show, which will be broadcast by Sweet.TV. This news was published on the website Glavcom on July 1, 2026. As a co-founder of the platform Na Yiyi Osnovi, Horova continues to be active in the music industry, despite the stressful circumstances she has faced.
The incident with Iryna Horova illustrates how wartime stress can shape people’s behavior, even in public settings. Her reaction generated widespread societal discussion, underscoring the need for emotional support and understanding during difficult times. Horova’s involvement in the new 'Star Factory' project may also signal efforts to revive cultural life in Ukraine, despite the ongoing challenges the country endures.
As Iryna Horova steps into her role as a judge for the newly revived talent show, the upcoming season of the Star Factory aims to bring a sense of normalcy and cultural revival amidst the ongoing turmoil in Ukraine. This initiative highlights how the entertainment industry is adapting and responding to the challenges faced by the nation, further emphasizing the importance of resilience in these trying times.