The classic talent competition Star Search is back on Netflix, launching its first episode on January 20. The new version spans five weeks and nine episodes, bringing fresh twists to a beloved format. Fans can now vote in real-time during each broadcast.
At a Glance
- Netflix’s Star Search returns for a 5-week, 9-episode run starting Jan. 20.
- Host Anthony Anderson and judges Jelly Roll, Chrissy Teigen, and Sarah Michelle Gellar lead the show.
- Viewers vote live via TV remote or the Netflix app during every episode.
- Why it matters: The revival mixes nostalgia with interactive technology, giving audiences a direct role in the competition.
The Revival
Netflix has re-imagined the classic talent series, aiming to capture a new generation of performers. Host Anthony Anderson brings his comedic flair to the stage, while the panel of judges includes Jelly Roll, Chrissy Teigen, and Sarah Michelle Gellar. Anderson emphasized that the most important judge is the audience, encouraging widespread participation.
“The live voting feature is a total game-changer,” Anderson told Tudum. “Knowing that fans from all over the world can cast their votes in real time adds a whole new layer of excitement and participation to the mix. It’s like we’re all part of the show and get to be one of the judges.”
The format retains the original’s spirit while adding contemporary elements. Contestants compete across music, dance, variety, comedy, magic, and juniors categories. Each episode spotlights the best up-and-coming performers, culminating in a finale where the winner is decided by the global audience.
How It Works
Viewers can vote during the broadcast using their TV remote or the Netflix app, with multiple voting windows per episode. Netflix emphasizes that the real-time aspect keeps the show dynamic and unpredictable. The platform’s interface displays live vote counts, adding transparency to the process.
Episode Schedule
The series airs two new episodes every week, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, leading up to the finale on February 17. Below is the detailed release schedule:
| Date | Episode |
|---|---|
| Jan. 20 | Episode 1 |
| Jan. 21 | Episode 2 |
| Jan. 27 | Episode 3 |
| Jan. 28 | Episode 4 |
| Feb. 3 | Episode 5 |
| Feb. 4 | Episode 6 |
| Feb. 10 | Episode 7 |
| Feb. 11 | Episode 8 |
| Feb. 17 | Episode 9 |
Netflix’s Star Search will be a five-week-long event with a total of nine episodes. Executive producer Jesse Collins explained that the first two episodes introduce the contestants, while episode 9 features the final four and the audience’s decisive vote. “At episode 9, that’s when the world has to decide who the winner is,” Collins told Gold Derby.
Behind the Scenes
The new iteration honors the original series that ran from 1983 to 1995, launching future superstars such as Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Dave Chappelle, Rosie O’Donnell, and Adam Sandler. After its initial run, the show briefly returned from 2003 to 2004.
Collins teased that the new version balances a fresh contemporary feel with nods to the original. “We got to make it feel fresh and contemporary for today and then figure out somewhere between a nod and an Easter egg for the original version,” he said.
What to Expect
Fans can anticipate a wide array of performances and surprises across multiple talent categories. The live voting mechanism means the outcome can shift dramatically during the broadcast. The show promises a blend of entertainment, competition, and audience engagement.
- Music – Singers and musicians showcase their vocal and instrumental skills.
- Dance – Choreographed routines spanning various styles.
- Variety – Acts that combine humor, magic, and novelty.
- Comedy – Stand-up and comedic performances.
- Magic – Illusionists and magicians.
- Juniors – Young performers under 18.
Netflix’s Star Search invites viewers worldwide to become part of the judging panel, offering a unique interactive experience. The platform’s real-time voting feature sets this revival apart from traditional talent shows. As Anderson and the judges emphasize, the show’s success hinges on the audience’s participation.
The series is available to stream on Netflix, with new episodes debuting at 9 p.m. ET on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Fans eager to see the next generation of stars can tune in from the start of the season on January 20. The finale on February 17 promises to deliver the ultimate showdown, with the winner decided by global viewers.
Key Takeaways
- Star Search returns to Netflix for a 5-week, 9-episode run.
- Host Anthony Anderson and judges Jelly Roll, Chrissy Teigen, Sarah Michelle Gellar lead the show.
- Real-time voting via remote or app adds a new interactive layer.
- Episodes air Tuesdays and Wednesdays, culminating on Feb. 17.
- The revival blends nostalgia with modern technology, inviting global participation.
