Screenwriters Union Criticizes Noa Kirel's New Series Amid Copyright Lawsuit

As the new international series starring Israeli pop star Noa Kirel, "Mírame Así," is set to premiere, the Screenwriters Union in Israel has issued a sharp statement expressing reservations about the show. The union's criticism stems from an ongoing lawsuit against the series' producers, who are accused of copyright infringement. The legal battle involves screenwriter, playwright, and actress Rotem Carmeli, who filed a lawsuit in April 2025 against producer Yair Dori and others involved in the production. Carmeli alleges that "Mírame Así" is based on materials from her original work, "Facu Yeah," including its format, synopsis, character structure, and a pilot script. The lawsuit, seeking 2.6 million shekels, is still pending.

The Screenwriters Union announced its support for Carmeli's legal fight, stating, "Usually, we would welcome any new Israeli creation, especially one that generates international interest. However, in this case, it is difficult for us to celebrate." The union emphasized its duty to protect creators whose intellectual property is allegedly infringed upon, noting this is a core function of their organization.

Furthermore, the union is considering extending its support to the international arena by contacting screenwriters' and creators' unions worldwide, potentially utilizing professional solidarity mechanisms. They urged production companies and broadcasters, both in Israel and globally, to rigorously uphold the rights of television and film creators throughout all stages of development, production, and broadcast, stressing that copyright protection is essential for a fair and healthy creative industry.

The union highlighted the timing of their statement, noting that while the lawsuit is ongoing, the series is already slated for international distribution. They expressed concern that the disputed work could be produced, broadcast, and distributed globally before a court ruling on the copyright claims is reached.