Marija Šerifović, one of the most recognizable and beloved singers in the Balkans, has decided to leave the jury of the popular music competition Zvezde Granda after a decade of involvement. This news hit like a thunderbolt out of the blue, and the reasons for her departure are multiple and deeply personal.
After ten years on the jury, Marija decided to step down due to constant fatigue and burnout, as well as a desire to devote herself fully to her family, especially her son Marija. She plans to move to America, where she already owns an apartment, and spend most of the year there. The decision was made about a month ago, but Marija agreed with the production not to announce it until the season officially ended and the winner was declared.
A significant factor in her decision was the late Saša Popović, director of Grand Production, with whom she had a long and emotional conversation at the end of the last season. He asked her to stay at least for one more season, which Marija honored, but after his passing, nothing stood in the way of her final decision.
In her emotional YouTube vlog, Marija admitted it was not easy to leave Zvezde Granda. She described how touching the scenes from the competition were, the encounters with colleagues and staff, and the memories of Saša Popović, who was a mentor and friend to her. She emphasized that this decade left a deep mark on her heart and that she is grateful for everything she learned and experienced.
Grand Production issued a statement expressing great gratitude to Marija for all she has done for the competition and young talents, emphasizing that they will continue to support her in all her future endeavors. The new season of Zvezde Granda will bring new challenges and faces, but Marija will forever remain a part of the history of this popular show.
Marija Šerifović’s departure from the Zvezde Granda jury is not just the end of an era but also a reminder of the price that public life and popularity can have on personal life and family. Whether someone will take her place and meet the high standards she set remains to be seen. What do you think – did Marija make the right decision, or is this just an escape from pressure and fatigue? Drop a comment, maybe you have the best answer!
