Melech Zilbershlag Debuts New Look as Regular Panelist on Tzvika Hadar Show
Israeli media personality Melech Zilbershlag has joined Tzvika Hadar's Channel 16 show as a regular panelist. The former Channel 12 reporter debuted a new braided look, parting with his signature sidelocks.
Popular Israeli media personality and former Channel 12 News correspondent Melech Zilbershlag is launching a new chapter in his television career. Zilbershlag has recently joined Channel 16's talk show "Dabru Elay" ("Talk to Me"), hosted by Tzvika Hadar, as a regular panelist.
A Dramatic Style Transformation
Alongside his new television role, viewers immediately noticed a significant change in Zilbershlag's appearance. The media figure has parted ways with his long sidelocks (peyot), which for years served as his most recognizable trademark, and now sports a braided hairstyle. This new look marks a major visual shift for someone who has successfully bridged the gap between a distinct Haredi identity and a prominent position in mainstream Israeli media and culture.
Zilbershlag first built his reputation as a unique media voice on social networks before transitioning to field reporting for Channel 12 News. His new permanent seat on Tzvika Hadar's panel represents a shift from field journalism to the role of an in-studio commentator and analyst.
A Nomadic Lifestyle
During a recent broadcast on Channel 16, Zilbershlag offered a glimpse into his unconventional lifestyle. He revealed that although he owns an apartment near his parents' home, he does not reside there permanently. Instead, he chooses to sleep in a different location almost every night, moving between short-term rentals, friends' apartments, and family members' homes.
He explained that the green backpack he carries everywhere serves as his mobile home, containing all his daily essentials. Reflecting on the philosophy behind this choice, Zilbershlag shared:
"We are born alone, poor and naked, and we also die alone, poor and naked."
With a permanent spot on a prime-time panel and a fresh look drawing public attention, Zilbershlag continues to establish himself as one of Israel's most intriguing and unpredictable media figures.
