If you’re old enough to remember Star Search, congratulations, your knees probably hurt a little too. Netflix is bringing the classic talent competition back, and yes, it’s the same show that helped introduce names like Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, and Christina Aguilera long before social media did the scouting.
The reboot launches January 20 on Netflix and will run as a five-week live competition, airing Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Viewers at home will get to vote in real time, which means the fate of these contestants is officially in the hands of people watching in sweatpants. Godspeed.
On the judging panel is Jelly Roll, joined by Chrissy Teigen and Sarah Michelle Gellar. Hosting duties go to Anthony Anderson.
Netflix says the show will feature a mix of singers, dancers, comedians, magicians, and other variety acts, basically anyone brave enough to perform live while America votes on them instantly. Jelly Roll’s involvement makes sense here. His career didn’t come from a polished TV launch, and he’s been pretty open about the long road it took to get where he is, which should make for some grounded feedback at the judges’ table.
Whether this reboot turns into a legit launchpad or just another nostalgia experiment remains to be seen. But between the live format, audience voting, and Jelly Roll bringing some honesty to the panel, it’s at least worth a watch.
Star Search premieres January 20 on Netflix.
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