Israel to Select Eurovision 2027 Representative via 'The Next Star' Talent Show

Israel will continue to choose its Eurovision contestant through the popular talent show "The Next Star" (HaKochav HaBa). The Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation (Kan) and Keshet 12 announced on July 12, 2026, that their collaboration will extend for the third consecutive year, with the selection process for Eurovision 2027, to be held in Bulgaria, airing on Keshet 12 this fall.

This decision follows two consecutive second-place finishes for Israel at Eurovision: Noam Batan secured second place in 2026, following Yuval Rafael's second place in 2025, who also won the audience vote. Previously, Eden Golan placed fifth in 2024, and Israel notably won the contest in 2018 with Netta Barzilai's song "Toy." Representatives from Kan will participate in selecting the winner during the semi-final and final stages of the show.

Kan explained that continuing the partnership with Keshet and Teddy Productions significantly reduces participation costs, allowing more resources to be allocated to original Israeli productions while maintaining the high production standards of Israel's Eurovision delegation.

The song selection process will also follow the new anonymous format introduced last year to ensure fairness and eliminate bias. Submitted demo recordings will be anonymized, excluding any identifying information about the creators. For the first time, creators may use artificial intelligence (AI) technology to produce demo versions, preserving full anonymity. A professional committee will initially select around 40 songs, from which a decisive committee comprising Kan and Keshet representatives will choose the final song to represent Israel.

Zivit Davidovich, acting deputy director of television at Kan, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing collaboration, highlighting its success and pride for Israel. Ilanit Siman-Tov Hirsch, Keshet 12's entertainment and development deputy director, emphasized the show's role in fulfilling dreams and connecting audiences to Israel's Eurovision journey. Yoav Tzafir, the show's chief editor, praised the program for discovering exceptional talents and providing a professional and creative platform to select Israel's representative on the global stage.