Moshe Peretz Talks Music, IDF Enlistment, and Politics in Candid Interview
Israeli singer Moshe Peretz discusses his new role on The Masked Singer, views on ultra-Orthodox military enlistment, and political frustrations in a candid interview.
Moshe Peretz is well-known for conquering major milestones throughout his career, and now he has added a fresh role to his resume as a panelist on The Masked Singer (Keshet 12). In an exclusive one-on-one interview with Ofira Asayag on the program Ofira Ohana Seri, he shared how the other panelists welcomed him, expressed his perspective on ultra-Orthodox enlistment, and criticized politicians ahead of the upcoming elections.
Joining the Panel and Embracing New Faces
Peretz spoke about his experience joining the panel and sitting next to Asayag at the guessers' table. You welcomed me with so much warmth, Peretz noted. I learned a huge amount from you, and you brought me straight into the profession. You have a notebook that looks like it belongs to the Mossad; I thought after five seasons you might relax a little bit. We never expected a season with so many surprises, where people fool us completely. People walk right under your nose, you see them everywhere, and suddenly they are under a mask.
Dealing with Competition and Tough Times
When asked how hard it is when young singers fill Caesarea, Peretz embraced the shift. It is amazing in my eyes. When a newcomer arrives, they bring something different and refreshing. We are still active on screen, and when I first arrived, people asked what this thing was, but they welcomed me nicely. I believe everything meant for me is mine, and I want to support others because jealousy is just a waste of energy.
Peretz also touched on the emotional toll of his career, especially following the events of October 7. I break down many times, he admitted. October 7 broke me like everyone else, but I am in a place of creation, singing to mothers who bury their sons. Even when you try to show strength, you bring it all back home.
Tradition, IDF Service, and Politics
Addressing the sensitive topic of ultra-Orthodox enlistment and the ongoing war, Peretz shared a balanced view. It is problematic, he said. I think prayer is very important, and back in biblical times, those who kept the Sabbath went out to fight. This is not a regular time; everyone is important on the front lines and must bear the burden. But at the same time, prayer is just as important, and we see miracles happening because of those prayers. I myself served and pray every morning for the people of Israel. I believe dying for the country is a supreme value, but there must be a way to both study and serve.
On the political front, Peretz did not hold back his frustration. We need a change, he stated. Since October 7, unity must come first. What I dislike lately is how politicians suddenly descend to the people, walk through markets, and try to convince everyone during campaign season. They should be connected to the people all year round. They work for us, not the other way around.
