Netflix has announced that its revival of the classic talent competition series Star Search will premiere live on January 13, 2026. Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated actor Anthony Anderson will host the show, which features real-time viewer voting. The series aims to blend nostalgia with modern interactivity across various performance categories.
Premiere Details
The revived Star Search is scheduled to launch on Netflix with live episodes airing Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 9:00 PM ET / 6:00 PM PT, starting January 13, 2026. This marks the show's return after a 20-year hiatus, positioning it as a key entry in the streaming platform's lineup of talent competitions. Viewers will participate through real-time global voting, influencing which contestants advance in the competition.
Host and Format
Anthony Anderson, known for his work in television and film, takes on hosting duties for the reimagined series. The format emphasizes an arced structure with weekly eliminations, building tension across episodes. Contenders will showcase skills in categories including music, dance, variety, comedy, magic, and juniors, competing head-to-head for a chance at stardom. Netflix describes it as a fresh take that honors the original while engaging new audiences with interactive elements.
Historical Context
Originally a launchpad for stars like Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Dave Chappelle, and Adam Sandler, Star Search helped propel many performers to fame in the 1980s and 1990s. The revival seeks to recapture that magic, offering up-and-coming talents a platform in today's competitive entertainment landscape. A teaser released by Netflix highlights the show's past highlights, setting the stage for its modern iteration.
This announcement underscores Netflix's strategy to revive beloved formats with updated twists, potentially drawing both nostalgic viewers and younger demographics to the live broadcasts.