Netflix Revives Star Search with Jelly Roll as Judge

Netflix has unveiled its revival of the classic talent competition Star Search, with country music star Jelly Roll joining actress Sarah Michelle Gellar and television personality Chrissy Teigen as judges. The series, hosted by actor Anthony Anderson, is set to premiere live on January 20, 2026, airing Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET on the streaming platform.

The reboot promises an interactive experience, allowing global viewers to influence outcomes through real-time voting via the Netflix mobile app or TV remotes. Each episode will feature up-and-coming performers competing head-to-head in categories such as music, dance, variety, comedy, magic, and juniors. With a five-week arc of weekly eliminations, the format aims to build tension and viewer engagement, determining which contestants advance toward a shot at stardom.

Anderson highlighted the innovation in a statement to Netflix's Tudum site. "The live voting feature is a total game-changer," he said. "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."