SuperStar (Czech and Slovak TV series)

SuperStar is a reality television singing competition franchise airing in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, both formerly united as Czechoslovakia. It is based on the British show Pop Idol, created by Simon Fuller. The show seeks to discover new solo singing talent, with contestants vying for the title of "SuperStar" and a recording contract.

The series has gone through several iterations, often with different names reflecting sponsorship or branding changes, but the core concept of a singing competition judged by a panel of experts and decided by public voting remains consistent. Past winners have achieved varying levels of success in the Czech and Slovak music industries.

The format typically includes several stages:

• Auditions: Open auditions are held across both countries, where aspiring singers perform before a panel of judges. The judges select a smaller group to move on to the next round.

• Theater Round/Bootcamp: This stage involves more rigorous challenges for the remaining contestants, including group performances, solo performances, and choreography. The judges further narrow down the field.

• Semi-Finals/Top 24 (or similar): The top contestants perform live on television, and the public begins voting for their favorites.

• Live Shows/Finals: Each week, the remaining contestants perform songs based on a chosen theme. The public votes for their favorite performances, and the contestant with the fewest votes is eliminated. This continues until a winner is chosen.

The judging panel has featured various prominent figures from the Czech and Slovak music scenes. The show is known for its dramatic eliminations, emotional backstories, and the often controversial opinions of the judges.

The winner receives a recording contract and often other prizes aimed at launching their music career. While the show has produced some successful artists, the long-term impact on the Czech and Slovak music scenes has been debated.