Khayat Explains His Decision to Adopt His Stepfather's Surname.

Khayat's Name Change

According to TSN.ua: Khayat, a finalist in Ukraine's national selection for the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, has revealed the personal reasons behind his decision to change his surname. Born Andriy Skalkovych, the artist legally adopted the surname Khayat, his stepfather's name, as an adult before launching his music career. He emphasized that while his stepfather never pressured him, he personally felt a strong desire to honor the man who helped raise him. This move highlights the deep family bonds within Ukrainian society, where such gestures carry significant emotional weight.

Khayat explained that he reached a point where he recognized his stepfather's surname as a core part of his own identity.

"There was a moment, out of gratitude and an internal feeling—because I've spent so much time with this family—that I realized this is a part of me, and I cannot ignore it," he stated.

Eurovision National Selection

The final of Ukraine's national selection for Eurovision 2026 is scheduled for February 7, where Khayat will perform his entry, 'Hertsi.' The artist recently released a music video for the song, showcasing his readiness for the high-profile competition. Success in this national selection is a crucial step for any Ukrainian artist aiming for international recognition.

Khayat's name change underscores the profound personal and emotional connections within his family, which may well influence his artistic expression. His participation in the Eurovision selection process represents a major career opportunity, as performing well can significantly boost an artist's profile both domestically and across Europe.