Hungary’s popular singing competition Megasztár is shaking up its judging panel ahead of its latest season, bidding farewell to two high-profile figures amid controversy and public spats. Gabi Tóth, a well-known pop singer, and Curtis, a rapper and television personality, have both been dropped from the demonstrate’s lineup, marking a significant shift for the long-running series.
The decision comes after a series of heated exchanges between the two judges and the show’s producers, culminating in their abrupt removal. While the network behind Megasztár has not issued a formal statement, reports from multiple Hungarian media outlets confirm the changes, citing tensions that escalated behind the scenes.
A Public Feud and a Network’s Response
The drama began when Tóth and Curtis openly criticized the show’s direction in recent interviews, sparking backlash from fans and producers alike. Curtis, in particular, drew attention with a blunt remark about the state of Hungarian rap, telling Index.hu, “I think there are few good male rappers here, let alone female ones.” The comment, widely perceived as dismissive of women in the industry, fueled further controversy.
Tóth, meanwhile, addressed the situation in a separate interview, downplaying the idea that they were “replaced.” In a statement to Blikk, she said, “We weren’t replaced.” However, her remarks contradicted reports from other outlets, including 444 and ORIGO, which confirmed that both judges had been officially removed from the upcoming season.
The timing of their exits has also raised eyebrows, given their political ties. Both Tóth and Curtis have been vocal supporters of Hungary’s ruling Fidesz party, leading some critics to speculate that their removal was politically motivated. Kontroll, a Hungarian news site, went so far as to describe the move as “shooting both Fidesz campaign faces from the show,” though no official explanation has been provided by the network.
What’s Next for Megasztár?
With Tóth and Curtis out, Megasztár is now searching for new judges to fill the void. The show, which has been a staple of Hungarian television for years, has yet to announce replacements, leaving fans curious about the direction of the upcoming season. The network’s decision to part ways with the two judges suggests a desire to refresh the show’s image, though it remains to be seen how audiences will respond.
For now, the controversy has put a spotlight on the pressures facing reality TV judges, who often walk a fine line between entertainment and public opinion. As Megasztár prepares for its next chapter, the departure of Tóth and Curtis serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the world of televised talent competitions.
The latest season of Megasztár is expected to premiere later this year, though an exact date has not been announced. Fans will be watching closely to spot who steps into the judging roles—and whether the new lineup can recapture the show’s former magic.
