Netflix Revives “Star Search” for a New Generation

Netflix has announced a revival of the classic competition show “Star Search,” originally popular in the 1980s. The updated version will be called “Live Competition,” providing a fresh platform for a new crop of talented young performers, as highlighted in The Hollywood Reporter.

Originally launched in 1983 and hosted by the iconic Ed McMahon, “Star Search” helped launch the careers of many now-famous artists, including Destiny’s Child (then known as Girls Tyme), Britney Spears, Ray Romano, Dave Chappelle, Billy Porter, The Backstreet Boys, and Usher.

“Star Search is coming to Netflix — and it’s going to air LIVE! This reimagined version of the iconic talent competition will spotlight the best up-and-coming performers as they compete for their shot at stardom with viewers voting to determine which contestants move forward,” Netflix announced on X.

This new iteration marks a significant addition to Netflix’s programming, with commitments to a live format. The show will stream twice weekly, focusing on various competition categories, such as music, dance, comedy, and children’s performances. Audience votes will play a crucial role in deciding the ultimate winner.

The original series enjoyed a successful 12-season run and was briefly rebooted in 2003-2004 with Arsenio Hall as the host.

Jesse Collins Entertainment, known for producing the Emmy Awards and the Super Bowl halftime show, is behind the new version. Executive producers for the project include Dionne Harmon, Madison Merritt, and Elaine Metaxas, with Jason Raff, who has worked on “America’s Got Talent,” serving as showrunner.