Israeli TV Sees Record Viewer Complaints in 2025, Spotlight on Controversial Programs

The year 2025 marked a turbulent period for Israeli television, with a dramatic rise in viewer complaints according to the Public Complaints Commissioner of the Second Authority, David Regev. The commissioner’s annual report revealed that complaints surged to 14,659, a significant increase from about 8,400 the previous year, with roughly 90% related to television content. The public showed heightened sensitivity to the nature of public discourse, particularly targeting current affairs programs (47% of complaints) and news broadcasts (33%).

The most complained-about program was the interview with Rami Davidian on the show 'Ofira and Lavinson' (Keshet 12), which received 3,148 justified complaints after viewers described the confrontation as humiliating. In the reality and entertainment category, 'Big Brother' (Reshet 13) led with 1,301 complaints, mainly concerning offensive behavior, verbal violence, bullying, and inappropriate tasks, focusing on participant Maor Baruchman.

Other notable programs included 'Petchi and Shay' with 811 complaints for airing a fake X-ray of the State Attorney, implying illness, and a News 12 commentator who falsely reported the Shin Bet chief’s imminent resignation, triggering 851 complaints about misinformation. The show 'The Patriots' (Channel 14) faced 672 complaints after a host claimed most residents of Tamra opposed Israel following a missile strike that killed four family members.

Complaints also targeted advertising, with 727 filed against the "My BMI" weight loss commercial, criticized for being offensive to overweight individuals and potentially encouraging eating disorders among youth.

Commissioner Regev noted that about 60% of complaints were substantiated, a rate significantly higher than the global average of 18%-24%. The remaining 40% were addressed through mediation, clarifications, or apologies from broadcasters. Despite the criticism, there was a positive trend with 1,009 supportive messages received, mostly defending journalist Erad Nir’s freedom of press and expression. Regev concluded, "The data shows the Israeli public does not seek to limit free speech but demands it be exercised responsibly, fairly, and with respect for human dignity, as public trust is the media’s most valuable asset."