Endemol Shine Israel unveils latest avatar-based format to hit market

Amir Ganor

Queens producer Endemol Shine Israel has unveiled a new dating format that uses avatars to keep celebrity contestants’ identities hidden.

Mystery Star Date uses motion capture technology, which allows the celebrities to be represented by personalised avatars that keep their identity hidden whilst they date non-famous suitors.

At the end of the series, once a bond has been formed, the famous persons’ true identity is revealed.

Amir Ganor, MD of Endemol Shine Israel, said: “Testament to our team’s creativity, led by Lee Gaon, this innovative format utilises mo-cap tech to alter how we approach dating.

“Given its uniqueness and cultural relevance, we anticipate strong interest from the market, particularly as consumer use of virtual reality is only set to grow.”

Several avatar-based entertainment formats have emerged lately, including Fox Alternative Entertainment (FAE)’s singing competition, Alter Ego. It was recently picked up by producers in the Middle East, Russia, Ukraine and Greece.