At a Glance
- The iconic talent competition returns to Netflix on January 20, 2025
- Viewers vote in real time using remotes or the Netflix app
- The live finale airs February 17, 2025
- Why it matters: Fans directly decide who becomes the next global superstar
Netflix is bringing back the legendary talent show Star Search with a modern twist. The series debuts on January 20, 2025, and runs for five weeks, culminating in a live finale on February 17, 2025.
Host and Judges Revealed
Comedian Anthony Anderson hosts the revival. The judging panel features country star Jelly Roll, model-author Chrissy Teigen, and actress Sarah Michelle Gellar.
“Star Search, the greatest talent competition ever is back,” Anderson declares in the trailer released exclusively to News Of Los Angeles.
The judges echo the stakes: “And the world’s next superstar is waiting to be crowned.”
Talent Categories and Format
Contestants include:
- Dancers
- Musicians
- Singers
- Magicians
- Comedians
- Junior performers
“We’re talking dancers, musicians, singers, magicians, comedians and more,” Teigen explains. She emphasizes viewer power: “the most important judge is you.”
Interactive Voting System
Each Tuesday and Wednesday at 9 p.m. ET, new episodes stream live. During each broadcast, audiences vote in real time via TV remote or the Netflix app. Votes determine weekly eliminations and, ultimately, the champion.
“The world’s greatest talent on the biggest stage…” Gellar promises. “All leading to one live finale,” Jelly Roll adds.
Anderson closes the trailer: “But remember, the superstar cannot be crowned without you. Whose star will rise? You help decide.”
Series Structure
Episodes spotlight emerging performers across six categories:
- Music
- Dance
- Variety
- Comedy
- Magic
- Juniors
The competition uses an arced structure with weekly eliminations. Real-time global voting builds dramatic momentum, making every episode unmissable, according to the show’s official logline.
Legacy of the Original
The first Star Search aired from 1983 to 1995, with a brief return from 2003 to 2004. The show helped launch the careers of:
- Beyoncé
- Justin Timberlake
- Christina Aguilera
- Britney Spears
- Dave Chappelle
- Adam Sandler
“The show that launched the greatest stars of our time is back,” Anderson said in an earlier teaser. “The next great star will be discovered.”
Key Takeaways
- Premiere date: January 20, 2025
- Finale date: February 17, 2025
- Voting: Real time, remote or app
- Episodes: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9 p.m. ET
- Platform: Netflix only
Fans eager to shape the next generation of superstars can mark their calendars and prepare to vote when Star Search goes live.
