Rising Star sold to Portugal

Portuguese commercial broadcaster TVI has become the latest broadcaster to acquire Rising Star.

The Keshet International-distributed interactive talent contest has sold extensively around the world and deals have now been concluded in each of the largest TV territories in Western Europe.

Bruno Santos, head of local programming at TVI said: “Rising Star is clearly one step ahead of what is being done with talent shows worldwide. This is our first bet on such a powerful talent show format.”

Alon Shtruzman, managing director, Keshet International, added: “TVI with its dominance of the Portuguese market, is the best partner in the territory to drive such an innovative and game-changing show.”

Keshet has concluded a raft of deals for the show since MIPCOM when it was launched internationally. No local version has yet been aired, but the show has proved popular in Israel where a record number of viewers have downloaded and used the play along app.