With the ratings plunge experienced by American Idol in its recent 13th season, it’s clear viewers are looking for a new twist to the same-old, same-old singing competition, and a new reality show debuting in a few weeks hopes to supply it.
Rising Star is based on a hit Israeli format that throws a real-time element into the mix by allowing viewers to download an app that will register their votes. Unlike Idol, which tallies votes after the music’s over, Rising Star shows voting results during the performance, with the viewers, judges and even the singers themselves able to see the votes rise and fall in real time. Viewers’ faces can be seen on a massive wall singers see while they perform; with results tabulated in real time, eliminations take place immediately so there’s no need for the typical results show.
Of course, a panel of judges will weigh in with their expert opinions, and Rising Star has tapped Ludacris, Kesha and Brad Paisley, while Josh Groban serves as host.
Rising Star premieres on Sunday, June 22; until then, here’s a sneak peek:
