If you are one of the roughly half a million Armenians living in the U.S, or the roughly quarter of a million living in LA, then you have most likely already heard of humanitarian filmmaker and TV host Vruir Tadevosian. For those of you who have not, expand your view of the world, and meet here an extraordinary gentleman.
I had the pleasure of meeting Vruir recently. What began as a respect on a professional level as a TV broadcaster executive and news anchor, quickly expanded into great appreciation as an artist and humanitarian, as someone who wants to better the world, and help children who are victims of war, and is doing just that.
TV Host and Filmmaker Vruir was recently spotted at the Grand Opening of Fusion Boutique Studio Beverly Hills, located at 136 North Robertson Boulevard, owned by Passionate Chuchu and her husband Simba Kaudani. Influencers and celebrities enjoyed an open bar, appetizers, and walking on the red carpet. Fusion Boutique Studio specializes in hydrotherapy head spa sessions, hair styling for men and women, top flight champagne for guests, and even has an electrical massage bed. Many guests approached Vruir to speak with him, drawn in by his warm, magnetic personality.
The Armenian National Committee of America Western Region (ANCA Western Region) will be hosting September 14 in Hollywood, the red-carpet screening of The Tales of the Blue Sky – Chronicles of War-Touched Children by Vruir Tadevosian, a powerful documentary depicting the experiences of Armenian Children during 2020 Artsakh Conflict, most of whom are currently under Azerbaijan’s 260 day plus illegal blockade of Artsakh that has left 30,000 Armenian children on the brink of Genocide. The screening will be followed by a Q&A session with Mr. Tadevosian and other experts, and a wine and cheese reception.
The following is our exclusive interview with Vruir.
Hollywood Sentinel: For those that don’t know about you, please tell us who you are and what you do.
Vruir: I am an international journalist from Armenia, currently based in Los Angeles. My most impactful experiences in this regard have taken place in Europe. I have worked closely with prominent media organizations including RNTC (Radio Netherlands Training Center in 2015) and non-governmental organizations, conducting research on topics such as freedom of speech and democracy.
Since 2015, I have been an elected Free Media Ambassador to Armenia by EYP (European Youth Press) for my critical role in Armenian’s largest media outlets such as Public TV and Radio Company of Armenia. I have been a member of the International Federation of Journalists since 2013, and I am also an authorized member of the Eurasian Academy of Television and Radio.
With extensive work experience and a solid foundation of scientific studies, the Russian-Armenian (Slavonic) University in Armenia invited me to deliver a lecture on journalism and modern media management. That was back in 2015, and it significantly influenced my professional trajectory by enabling me to educate and mentor hundreds of students. I was the youngest lecturer. Over the span of multiple years, I embarked on a captivating intellectual and scientific journey with my students. It brings me great pride to witness their accomplishments and successes in their endeavors.
Currently I am based in Los Angeles working as a leading TV Host/News Anchor at LA based Horizon Armenian TV, which is the longest running Armenian media network here in the U.S.
Hollywood Sentinel: When and why did you start doing this? How did you get started?
Vruir: It’s fascinating to reflect on my lifelong involvement in media communications and broadcasting. What’s particularly intriguing is that I was born in a tiny village in Armenia during a war period. Back then, the 90s, there was a scarcity of resources – no electricity, limited food availability – and even amidst those challenging circumstances, I found myself drawn to the realm of expression. I remember studying by candlelight, seeking refuge underground during bombings, and entertaining those around me by reciting, singing, etc. Even at school, I was the only one entrusted with hosting various events.
Whenever electricity was restored, I’d be in front of the TV, engrossed in programs and movies for hours on end – an activity I simply couldn’t tear myself away from. It’s quite a contrast to today’s world with its pervasive internet connectivity. I think only a few can imagine life without media communications. But try to imagine that I grew up in a time when even basic communication involved gathering in the village square for news updates or relying on people, the messengers to deliver information. Frequently, I found myself being the messenger for delivering news – that was the reality of those times.
In choosing a career path, the decision was swift and natural. Although I also entertained aspirations of becoming an actor, my heart was set on media and communication. I embarked on this journey at the age of 16 when I entered university, driven by a distinct understanding of what it took to become a professional. By the time I turned 17, I was already hosting live broadcasts, marking the inception of my career. At 18, I began my international ventures as a professional, venturing out on solo travels and expanding my horizons. Reflecting on it now, even if I were to go back and choose again, I’m certain I’d make the same choice without hesitation.
Hollywood Sentinel: That’s amazing. What projects are you currently working on?
Vruir: Presently, we are deeply engrossed in the management of four expansive media endeavors, among them being my very own film. With our documentary production, we hold the intention of taking it across numerous countries, aiming to present it to audiences far and wide. The film serves as a means to shed light on the predicaments faced by children residing in conflict zones, a topic that garners insufficient attention in the present times.
Equally significant in our roster is the reality show titled ‘The Armenians in Los Angeles’, seamlessly interwoven with documentary components. This series spotlights the most influential, largest, and remarkably accomplished professional networks, encompassing a mere three years’ worth of content. Having premiered last October, it represents an unparalleled endeavor aimed at acquainting the world with the influential Armenian community established here in Los Angeles. As you’re likely aware, Armenians wield considerable influence in this locale.
Yet another project, ‘VIP Talk Show with Vruir Tadevosian’, centers on unveiling lesser-known Armenians who have initiated substantial changes in the world, whether globally or on a local scale within America. This program rapidly secured devoted viewership and commendable ratings in a brief span. The series comprises candid, unpretentious dialogues, delving into the lives of ordinary individuals who reside among us, yet significantly contribute to their surroundings’ advancement.
In conjunction with these commitments, I hold the responsibility of overseeing the news department at Horizon TV. Over the years, we’ve transformed ourselves from a mere news broadcaster into a pivotal news producer, a transformation that bears immense significance in today’s landscape. Our evolution has propelled Horizon TV into becoming one of the foremost networks within the Armenian media realm. It stands as one of the most widely recognized and avidly watched initiatives within our community.
Hollywood Sentinel: Your work is uplifting culture. For those that are not familiar with you, how are you doing this and why is this important to you?
Vruir: One of the projects I am deeply committed to is a documentary film focusing on the struggles of children living in war zones. By shedding light on their challenges and stories, we hope to raise awareness and empathy, inspiring action to address these urgent issues.
Another significant project involves showcasing the achievements and contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds. By highlighting their stories, we provide a platform for those who might otherwise remain unheard, fostering a sense of inclusivity and shared humanity.
Through the reality show ‘The Armenians in Los Angeles’, we aim to introduce the world to the influential Armenian community in the city. This initiative fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, contributing to a more interconnected global society.
‘VIP Talk Show with Vruir Tadevosian’ allows us to spotlight individuals who are actively changing the world and their communities. By sharing their journeys, we hope to inspire others to take positive actions and contribute to positive transformation on both small and large scales.
My role in managing the news department of Horizon TV contributes to delivering accurate and relevant information to the community. Informed individuals are better equipped to engage in informed discussions, make better decisions, and contribute positively to society.
Uplifting humanity is of utmost importance to me because it aligns with my belief in the power of media and communication to inspire change. By creating content that educates, informs, and resonates with audiences, we can foster empathy, understanding, and collaboration across diverse backgrounds. These efforts contribute to a more compassionate, informed, and united global community, making the world a better place for everyone.
Hollywood Sentinel: Why do you think wars begin overall in general? How can they end?
Vruir: You know, I posed this very question to the characters in my film “The Tales of the Blue Sky,” using these very words. The characters are children, not well-versed in the complexities of wars, yet a ten-year-old boy delivered a profoundly moving response. He said, “I may not know the reasons, but I wish no mother would ever be left without her child… ”
The pain of war differs for the family of a simple, ordinary child, dwelling in a distant, quiet village, distinct from that felt by those seated in the offices of the United Nations. This question doesn’t yield a straightforward answer. Wars, regardless of the outcome, culminate in tragedy for all parties involved.
I, too, endured the loss of my childhood due to a prolonged war. Today, I am dedicated to a singular mission: extending assistance to those who, three decades later, continue to grapple with the same struggles and losses I faced. My aim is to offer support to those enduring the aftermath of conflict, hoping to alleviate the hardship they experience, and contribute to a world that has seen enough suffering.
Hollywood Sentinel: What is one of the biggest obstacles you have had to overcome in Hollywood or life, and how did you overcome this?
Vruir: The challenges I encountered primarily revolved around technical matters, but thankfully, with the support of my friends, I was able to swiftly resolve them. I easily adapted to the new environment. The hardest part is being far from my family and old friends. Having lived in megacities and embarked on extensive travels, I possess a familiarity with diverse environments. In California, I experience a sense of belonging like nowhere else; it doesn’t make one feel like an outsider.
Hollywood Sentinel: What advice would you give aspiring filmmakers starting out?
I derive great satisfaction from sharing my experiences and offering guidance, and while I could elaborate on this topic extensively, I’ll try to be brief here. My foremost counsel to aspiring filmmakers centers on self-awareness. One need not confine themselves solely to the film industry; rather, unveiling one’s essence on a profound, intrinsic level is key. This practice enables the comprehension of one’s purpose in this world, provided the capacity to juxtapose personal destiny with contemporary existence and historical context is cultivated. I often advised my students: prior to facing the camera or grasping a pen, “Endeavor to recognize your identity on this planet. Understand what you seek to express, what change you aspire to effect.” With this understanding, the path naturally unfolds.
For novices, a commitment to learning is paramount. My ardor for television led me to willingly serve as the assistant to an assistant technician, all for the privilege of entering a TV studio. In our modern era, where social media has transformed us into walking television channels, there’s an imperative to pursue extensive learning and comprehensive preparation. Though it might appear uncomplicated, the journey is profoundly intricate. An abundance of ardor is essential. Filmmaking isn’t confined to the camera; it embodies life, the hero’s narrative, the intricacies of scripting, direction, and editing. To emerge as a robust filmmaker, proficiency in multiple domains is requisite.
Media, encompassing a multitude of genres, necessitates a mastery of diverse proficiencies. Chief among these skills is effective communication. It is imperative to recall that any media creation accessible to a broad audience primarily serves as a window into the author’s persona and the collaborative team’s efforts. Consequently, dedicating ample time to contemplation before embarking on the creative process is imperative. Crafting resonant content involves meticulous thought and deliberate creation.
Hollywood Sentinel: What do you like to do when you are not working?
Vruir: Due to my extensive work commitments, my daily schedule is rather limited. I’m an avid reader, holding a deep appreciation for the value of knowledge. Prioritizing my physical health is essential, and I relish the opportunity to embark on walks, allowing me to encounter new individuals and engage in meaningful interactions. Moreover, I take pleasure in simply being present during the sunrise or sunset, often accompanied by a cup of coffee, engaging in reflective contemplation.
Hollywood Sentinel: Where can we see your work?
Vruir: My media projects are available on my social media platforms, on my YouTube channel, on Horizon Armenian Television’s official website and its official social media platforms.
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14701491/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/vruirtadevosian
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/vruirtadevosian.tv/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyqLuSgQSlYp9ZdpYPD5ozw
