Toker Presents: A New Jewish Program on Channel 2
Channel 2 realizes that Jewish content boosts ratings, and now they're taking it to the next level. Starting next week, radio host Menachem Toker will launch a comprehensive Jewish magazine show, marking a first for the channel. "Our goal is to sanctify God's name publicly," he says in an interview with Hidabroot Weekend.
Approximately 20 years after starting his successful radio career across various stations like Channel Seven, Radio Kol Chai, and Radio Jerusalem, Menachem Toker is now transitioning to television. He is set to bring a well-produced weekly Jewish magazine to Channel 2. Toker's collaboration with the network began some time ago, and starting next week, the program will air every Friday afternoon and rebroadcast on Saturday night. It will also be available on the Israeli satellite channel in the United States.
While Jewish programs have aired on Channel 2 before, this is the first time a vibrant and comprehensive show will be broadcast, featuring segments on the weekly Torah portion, acts of kindness, music, Jewish life, Jewish cooking, and more. Artists, musicians, and key guests will share their faith and Jewish lifestyle with viewers."The idea for the show came from me and a friend," Toker tells Hidabroot Weekend in an interview. "The network was looking for a new concept for a Jewish-themed show. When I approached them, they were interested and said that if we're going to do it, let's make it something high-level, something that hasn't been done before—not just a low-effort weekly Torah portion show, but a high television standard to create a Win-Win situation."
Do you think they realized that Judaism can bring significant ratings, hence the decision for an upscale format?
"Yes, and the proof is the Hidabroot channel, which led the Jewish television revolution. Today, it's clear that people seek Judaism, nostalgia, and faith. People know there is a Creator, and when this can be presented in a pleasant television format, it's an excellent combination."
Nonetheless, this is a non-religious platform. What will you do if the network demands content that contradicts Jewish law?
"I have veto rights over all content, and part of the editorial process goes through me. The idea is to produce an hour of Judaism in a pleasant, positive television format that won't drive away secular viewers, enriching them with Judaism in a joyful and loving way. If a traditionally observant person happens to watch, he should be able to do so without encountering non-kosher material. The idea is distinctly to avoid any desecration of God's name. Our goal is exactly the opposite: to sanctify God's name publicly."
