But Star Search judges are full of praise for UK-based comedina

Janine Harouni missed out on the $500,000 top prize on Netflix talent show Star Search last night.

The comedian, from New York’s Staten Island but now based in London, has made the final of the glitzy talent hunt, but lost out to Las Vegas magician TJ Salta – whose routine even involved falconry.

Under the format of the show, Harouni and the other eight finalists all took part in a head-to-head, with the winner of each clash decided by viewers giving a score of one to five in a live vote.

The 38-year-old comic was drawn against ultimate winner Salta, scoring an average of 3.49 points, compared to the illusionist’s 4.32, so did not advance to the final four.

Judges praised her set – especially given it was a no-frills performance compared to the high-risk trapeze work, set-piece magic, music and ventriloquism.

Chrissy Teigen said: ‘What I love so much about comedy is you’re up there you’re alone. It is quiet in here. People are just waiting on every word you say, and hanging on every word. And yet you have no fear, you’re fearless. Your cadence, the way you speak, the way you deliver a joke, it’s beautiful. It’s so fun to watch.’

Jelly Roll added: ‘Everybody else has fireworks, theatrics… what you’ve done here has been to me the most challenging thing. If we had to judge based on who had to go most uphill in this competition, it’s been you by a country mile, girl, and I’m so proud of you.'

Sarah Michelle Gellar concluded: ’We were waiting for you< Tis show was built on comedy. When you go down the list of celebrities, the comedians are just incredible. I’m so excited that you get to continue that legacy because you’re great. We were waiting for you.'

This is the latest incarnation of Star Search, which originally ran from  1983 to 1995, hosted by Ed McMahon. Previous comedy contestants include Norm Macdonald, Ray Romano, Rosie O’Donnell, Sinbad, Roy Wood Jr. and Britain’s Jim Tavaré.

Published: 18 Feb 2026