Channel 13 Executives Scramble Over "The Voice" Ratings Slump

Channel 13 is facing a challenging period following disappointing ratings for its flagship shows. The season finale of "Power Couple" on Monday garnered 8.1% viewership, the lowest for the format's finale, with a season average of 8.9%, also a series low. This performance trailed behind "Master Chef" on Channel 12 with 12.8% and "The Patriots" on Channel 14 with 6.6%.

A more significant blow came two days later when "The Voice," a high-profile and costly production, achieved only 5.7% viewership. This figure fell below "The Patriots" (7%) and was dwarfed by the finale of "Dancing with the Stars" (17.9%). It is noted that "The Voice" was conceived, cast, and filmed under the previous management, with filming for the sixth season beginning in March and airing in July. New owner Assaf Rappaport acquired Channel 13 in March and appointed Idan Alrum as CEO in May.

Despite not yet having final regulatory approval for the acquisition, Rappaport and his investment partners are acting as owners, even influencing the news division. Rappaport has already overseen changes in channel management, acquired "Israel Entertainment" for social media integration, and made personnel decisions including hiring and firing senior reporters and talent like Moshik Rot. Zamir Dahbash, Rappaport's long-time associate, has also been placed in the spokesperson's office.

While the current team cannot alter the already filmed "The Voice" episodes, management is demanding better results from promotional efforts and social media engagement to boost viewership. During a senior management meeting last Thursday, harsh criticism was leveled following the low ratings, with a clear message to staff: "Those who don't sweat won't be here." The first live broadcast of "The Voice" is scheduled for Sunday, September 6th. Channel 13 and the investment group declined to comment on the report.