Tal Friedman leaves 'Eretz Nehederet'
After more than a decade, comedian quits popular satirical television show. 'We were a family and will remain friends', says editor in chief.
Comedian Tal Friedman, star of the successful satire program "Eretz Nehedert" is leaving the show after 11 memorable seasons to pursue new projects.
"I salute Molly Segev and the fabulous writers for years of creativity, setting career highs and many moments of laughter in the writers' room; I salute the team of Israel's leading comedians, and salute the best and most skilled production team that ever existed – we were a family for 11 tears and will remain friends forever," Friedman said.
"I'm embarking on a new and independent path, with its focal point being my stand-up comedy show which appears in venues across the country, and of course am developing new television projects," he added, thanking the entire staff from the bottom of his heart.
"Tal is without a doubt one of the icons of "Eretz Nehedert"," said Muli Segev, "Eretz Nehederet's" editor in chief. "He's responsible for the program's breakthrough in its early seasons and is, until today, the pillar of the show."
"His talent, craziness and charisma are irreplaceable," Segev explained. "In addition, he's also a dear friend of mine and I can't imagine working without him. On this day, there's nothing left to do but hug him, wish him luck and say a huge thank you for the numerous characters and hysterical moments that we, like many of TV viewers in Israel, will never forget."
Regarding the future of the show, Segev reassured viewers that the show will go on without Friedman. "Tal is moving on, and so is "Eretz Nehedert". The retirement of veteran and much-loved stars provides an opportunity for new talents to take to the stage. As in previous cases, Tal will forever be part of the family and I'm sure we'll be seeing him in guest appearances in the following seasons."
Friedman has been part of the "Eretz Nehedert" cast since it first aired in 2003, and portrayed unforgettable characters such as Luba the Russian supermarket worker, and the Jewish settler "Rachel."
He is also well known for his iconic impersonations of politicians Shelly Yachimovich, Ariel Sharon, and more.
While Friedman did not appear in many skits in the last season, scheduled to end on Saturday, he had appeared regularly on a musical segment at the end of each show.
