After a five-year absence from Europe, Charles Billich has made a triumphant return to engage in a series of monumental events.
On July 5, 2025, Billich once again etched his name in history by attending the world record-breaking concert of Marko Perković Thompson, which attracted an astonishing audience of 504,000 ticket holders. At the culmination of this landmark concert, Steve Ravić and the Majestic Film entourage escorted Billich onto the stage for the unveiling of a remarkable 1.6-meter-high painting of Marko Perković, which was presented directly to the iconic singer himself. This once-in-a-lifetime moment, marked by its historic significance, is destined to be immortalized in the annals of time.
Croatian Cultural Connections and Diplomatic Meetings
In the days following the concert, Billich spent time in Croatia with colleagues Steve Ravić, who organized the presentation of the painting, Vesna Trokter, and the Majestic Film team. Their itinerary included a meeting with the Ambassador of Australia Richard Rodgers and crucial meetings with champion common law attorney Don Markušić including a celebratory dinner attended by notable figures including the celebrated singing duo Samoana, the Samoans Christian and Austen who perform in the Croatian language. Billich and his team also socialized with friends such as Dario and Davorka Marenić of Elda in Nova Gradiška and enjoyed an intimate dinner with singing legend Dražen Žanko and his wife, Gordana, in Zagreb.
Spiritual Pilgrimage and Winery Visit
Another highlight of Billich’s visit was his trip to Podrumi Andrija, where the Ćorić family, close friends of Ravić, graciously hosted the team at their stunning winery in Paoča, Hercegovina. This visit also included a spiritual pilgrimage to Medjugorje, where Billich visited the famous church that he once depicted in his artwork.
Final Celebrations in Split
The journey concluded in Split, where Billich and his team attended lunch with Joyce and Shaun of Morrell Films joined by Mara and Branko Perić of SP Production from Tomislavgrad.
The eventful yet relaxing trip culminated with a lovely dinner hosted by Marko Perković Thompson, alongside his wife Sandra and aspiring actress daughter Diva, in appreciation of Billich’s contributions to promoting Croatia to the world. Following this grand farewell, Billich set off for Paris, where his works will be exhibited in September.
UNESCO Recognition in Paris
The Paris trip commenced with the 30th Anniversary Celebration of the OLYMP’ARTS Founding Charter at UNESCO, where Billich was honoured as a special delegate on July 16 for his lifelong dedication to celebrating global culture through the Olympic Games.
This presentation at UNESCO symbolises the greatness of Charles Billich, who is widely regarded as the greatest living artist of our time.
Documentary Premiere and Upcoming Film Projects
The new documentary “Billich 90,” directed and produced by Steve Ravić, premiered at Cannes on May 15, a date of profound significance marking the 80th anniversary of the Bleiburg tragedy. The documentary showcases Billich’s poignant painting of Bleiburg and the torment he endured under communist Yugoslavia.
After five years of intense research, investigations, and development by Steve Ravić, final arrangements are now being put in place with global partners for the upcoming film “My Way,” to be based on the real-life story of Charles Billich, for which the script has been completed.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Billich’s life story, already beyond comprehension, is now poised to reach new heights of greatness. His recent accolade at UNESCO further underscores his significance on the world stage.
