Ana Bekuta leaves Zvezde Granda after 12 years; Sanja Vucic joins the jury
Bekuta says she needs a break after 12 years on the show and plans to record new songs and tour.
Ana Bekuta made her first public appearance after announcing she would step down from the judging panel of the long-running talent show Zvezde Granda, saying she wants to slow down and focus on her own music career.
Bekuta cites exhaustion and a wish to record and tour
Appearing at a concert by colleague Dragan Kojic‑Keba, Bekuta told reporters that filming for the show had been taking too much of her free time and that she intends to devote herself to “recording new songs and organising a tour.”
She described the choice as a personal break rather than a dramatic exit. "I wasn't upset by that news, I simply want to rest a bit!" Bekuta said, adding that she has not yet left the show's group chat and will do so only when filming resumes. She told journalists she woke up one morning and decided, "You must take a break!" and that after more than a decade on the panel she felt saturated and ready to step back so they could "miss each other for a while." She also recalled that during the meeting with Grand's leadership she was told the door would remain open for her to return and to promote songs or sit next to Popović when she wished.
Bekuta said the decision gives her a chance to enjoy smaller things again — reading books, watching series, avoiding all‑night hours and travelling.
Grand Production issued a statement thanking Bekuta for her twelve years on the show. Filming for the new season began today and the production announced new surprises for viewers, including Bekuta's replacement on the panel.
Sanja Vucic will take Bekuta's seat. Vucic said she understands Bekuta's wish to rest and is excited about assembling a new team and working with talented contestants. Aleksandar Milić "Mili", the music director, hinted there may be further changes to the format and lineup: "I can't say anything in advance… I think there will be more changes, and for some I don't even know myself, so we will all be surprised!"
Photo: press material from the event
