
In April 2021, TVNZ debuted a 24 episode second season of Popstars. The show format was revamped. Unlike the original show in 1999, it was not a documentary following the formation of a girl group. Instead, the reboot focused on individual artists — both solo artists and groups of any gender, aged 16 or older, and placed its emphasis on original songwriting from the performers themselves.
The series involved a panel of three experts, headed by Kimbra, who was joined by Nathan King and Vince Harder. In the auditions phase, the singers were first assessed by vocal coaches Bella Kalolo and Jeremy Redmore.
The series screened on TVNZ 2 on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday nights.
Popstars kicks off with auditions at the Civic Theatre in Auckland. With a big cash prize on the line, hundreds turn up to perform for the Popstars panel – Kimbra, Nathan King and Vince Harder.