Singer Shiri Maimon Reflects on Past Reality TV Struggles Ahead of 'Dancing with the Stars'

Shiri Maimon, one of Israel's most recognized and successful singers, opened up about her challenging beginnings on the reality show "Kochav Nolad" (A Star Is Born) more than two decades ago. Although she lost in the final, that experience launched her impressive career. Now, as she competes on "Dancing with the Stars," Maimon reveals how those early setbacks still affect her.

Maimon described the emotional difficulty of the entertainment industry, saying, "It started for me on 'Kochav Nolad' with the biggest dream, I thought I was touching it, then boom, everything shatters in your face." She explained that returning to competition on "Dancing with the Stars" forces her to confront those feelings again, but this time from a different perspective.

Unlike her early days as a young singer, Maimon is now a mother of three children who experience the process alongside her. She shared how her son, Itay, 13, reacts to the criticism she receives, asking questions like "Why did they give you a 7?" or "Why did you tell me you weren't good?" This parental perspective brings new emotional weight to her participation. Maimon became emotional discussing the difference between competing alone and doing so with her children watching, emphasizing the need to balance pushing limits with maintaining positivity.

The interview aired on June 29, 2026, on Keshet 12, just before her upcoming personal dance performance on the show. Maimon's reflections highlight the lasting impact of early career challenges and the evolving meaning of public competition as a parent.