Why Asi Azar and Rotem Sela Haven't Joined the Festigal Yet
TV hosts Asi Azar and Rotem Sela reveal why they haven't performed at the Festigal in 13 years, blaming their heavy workload on The Next Star and teasing fellow judges.
Asi Azar and Rotem Sela are among the most famous TV hosting duos, but one major stage has eluded them for years: the legendary Festigal. In a recent interview on the set of "Matokim", Azar revealed that a 13-year commitment has kept them away from the massive children's Hanukkah show.
The Festigal Dream and the HaBaBa Schedule
When asked why he and Sela have never performed at the Festigal despite constant fan demand, Azar admitted it is a childhood dream. However, their long-running role hosting "The Next Star" ("HaKochav HaBa") makes it practically impossible due to scheduling conflicts.
"We can't, you know, for 13 years already, because we are on The Next Star. And it's a childhood dream of mine, it's a true childhood dream," said Asi Azar.
When the interviewer pointed out that singer Itay Levi managed to balance both projects, Azar playfully took a jab at the judging panel.
Salaries and Behind-the-Scenes Jokes
Azar quickly noted that Levi is a judge, not a host, and jokingly called the judges "spoiled" for complaining about a handful of shooting days while the hosts work triple the amount. Industry estimates put Azar and Sela's annual network contracts at roughly 2 to 3 million shekels each. The dynamic duo is never shy about discussing their earnings, famously joking on camera about out-earning their fellow judges.
