Tonight, Matthew, ITV reboots Stars in Their Eyes with its latest primetime Saturday show Starstruck. And why the hell not!
Some viewers might be up in arms – let’s not mention the (terrible) 2015 revival of the beloved 90s favourite – but this version has star quality.
With a new name, new format, celebrity panel of judges and well-cast host in Olly Murs, the show has clearly taken notes and had its own makeover, but the essence is the same.
Ordinary people leave their day jobs behind, and for one night only, transform into their idols for an epic performance.
Thanks to a crack team glamming them up with costumes, hair and make-up and impressive staging, we get that “Wow” moment. Forget the singing… it really is all about the wigs and outfits.
If I’m being picky, it’s a shame they no longer appear through that infamous Stars in Their Eyes smoke – that was always the best bit. Now, the moment is slightly less impactful with a digital on-screen switch.
But now there are three opportunities to scrutinise and compare people to their idols instead of just one. Contestants team up in trios, and they are all superfans desperate to upstage each other.
And judging them are four actual singers. What a novel idea.
Sheridan Smith, who once morphed into Cilla, is keen to study their mannerisms and how they “become that person”.
Queen frontman Adam Lambert knows all about filling big boots. “It’s not just about sounding like them, it’s embodying their spirit,” he says, with extra schmaltz… he’s American.
Joining them are soulstress Beverley Knight and comedian-with-a-set-of-lungs Jason Manford. They make for an energetic panel. There’s no Mr Nasty, no big red buzzer… just standing ovations, compliments and feel-good family fun.
It’s a new breed of talent show that doesn’t need to tear everyone to pieces just for ratings – and that’s OK.
Last night, we saw teams mimic Freddie Mercury, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga and Marvin Gaye.
The best part was guessing which idol they were going to be. “Take it off, take it off!” (or something like that).
There’s something magic about seeing a stay-at-home dad, a Tesco cashier or a phone sales rep get their big moment.
The judges chose Team Freddie for the sing-off, then the audience put Rob, from Lancashire, through to the final.
That was inevitable. You’re supposed to listen for the most convincing icon, but people always pick the best lookalike – and in his bright yellow jacket and moustache, he was the champion.
A starry show proving that just sometimes, the oldies are the best.
