Netflix is rolling out a new interactive feature designed to make live streaming feel more like a shared event: real-time voting. The company says subscribers will be able to vote during live programming starting with the premiere of its live-streamed talent show, Star Search, on January 20.
With this new Netflix live voting option, viewers can participate in two main ways. Depending on the moment in the show, you’ll either choose from a multiple-choice menu or rate a performance using a five-star scale. Voting works across devices, so you can cast your vote with your TV remote while watching on the big screen, or use the Netflix mobile app if that’s more convenient.
Netflix notes that the feature is built to run globally and is designed to count votes in real time behind the scenes. There’s an important catch, though: voting windows are time-limited. Once the voting period closes, any additional votes won’t be counted. In other words, if you’re watching the show later on delay, you’ll still be able to watch the episode, but you won’t be able to influence the outcome.
This isn’t Netflix’s first experiment with interactive live content. The company began testing live voting back in August 2025 with Dinner Time Live with David Chang. Now, it’s expanding the idea to a bigger stage with Star Search, positioning audience participation as part of the core viewing experience rather than a one-off novelty.
Netflix has been steadily increasing its investment in live programming, including live entertainment shows, major sports broadcasts such as its NFL Christmas special, and wrestling programming through WWE. The service has also been exploring interactive experiences beyond video. In October, Netflix introduced interactive games playable on smart TVs, giving viewers another way to engage from the couch. Live voting brings those two directions together—live events plus interaction—by letting audiences influence results as the show happens.
The bigger goal is clear: make Netflix live shows feel more immersive and participatory across TV and mobile, turning passive viewing into something closer to being part of the action. With Star Search serving as the launch point, real-time voting could become a key feature in how Netflix builds and promotes future live series, talent competitions, and event-style programming.
