Milica Rizov Trajkov returns to Zvezde Granda after dramatic transformation
The Kavadarci singer advanced directly after a dramatic visual transformation that left some judges unrecognizing her.
Milica Rizov Trajkov returned to the regional spotlight with a bold new look and a confident stage presence on the talent show Zvezde Granda. The Kavadarci-born performer secured direct qualification to the next round after receiving six votes from the judges, surprising viewers and some panel members who said they barely recognized her.
Transformation and stage identity
Four years after first appearing on the show as a minor and a high‑school contestant, when she worked with mentor Aleksandar Milić Mili, Rizov Trajkov re-emerged with a noticeably different visual identity. She revealed in an interview on the program that she has lost as many as 15 kilograms, a change that contributed to the dramatic effect of her return.
From provocative bodysuits to cabaret‑inspired performances, Milica has steadily cultivated an individual style that critics and viewers compare to international avant‑garde stars and to Josipa Lisac. In her latest appearance she delivered an intentionally theatrical, cabaret‑tinged set that combined costume, choreography and a strong vocal delivery.
The judges reacted enthusiastically: Sanja Vučić praised her uniqueness, Ceca said she is "born for the stage" and noted how Milica easily flirts with different genres (from folk music to jazz), while Dara Bubamara saw in her a mini‑version of the legendary Josipa Lisac.
Following a recommendation from the panel and a production decision, Milica chose rock artist Gjorgje David as her mentor for the current season and will continue to compete under his guidance.
Rizov Trajkov comes from Kavadarci and is a former schoolmate of Mirjana Mitreva, another contestant who represented North Macedonia in earlier seasons. Viewers who remember her performances in 2022/23 — including a widely discussed transparent bodysuit at the start of 2023, when she was 18 and already trained in ballet — noted how much her stage persona has evolved since then.
Photo: press material from the event
