The beloved talent show “Star Search” is making a return, and it’s set to captivate a new generation. Originally launched in the 1980s and 90s, the program was instrumental in launching the careers of numerous stars like Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, and many others including Adam Sandler and Christina Aguilera. The revived series promises to combine the nostalgia of its predecessor with new features suited for today’s audience.
Premiering on Netflix on January 20 at 9 p.m. EST, “Star Search” will showcase a diverse group of musicians, dancers, comedians, and variety acts performing live. In an exciting twist, the revival allows viewers to engage in live voting, determining which acts move forward in the competition and which will be eliminated.
Hosted by Anthony Anderson, known for his role on “Black-ish,” the show will feature a dynamic judging panel that includes model and TV personality Chrissy Teigen, country music sensation Jelly Roll, and actress Sarah Michelle Gellar. The judges bring significant industry experience, enhancing the show’s credibility and appeal.
“Star Search” episodes are scheduled to air live on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 9 p.m. EST. Unlike the original cable airing, this revival is exclusively available on Netflix, which offers various subscription options for viewers.
Fans eager to participate in the voting process will need a supported device, such as a smart TV or mobile app, as web voting won’t be accessible. During the show, viewers will have designated voting windows to rate performances with a 1-5 star system. Votes can only be submitted once per performance per Netflix profile and are irreversible, with results unveiled in real-time.
This reboot of “Star Search” not only rekindles the excitement of talent competitions but also empowers viewers to play a crucial role in shaping the outcomes. As anticipation builds for its premiere, there’s a hopeful sense that this updated version will inspire and discover the next wave of extraordinary talent.