British actress Hannah Waddingham, who gained international fame through the hit series "Ted Lasso" and hosted the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool in 2023, has expressed strong admiration for Israeli pop star Noa Kirel. In an interview with Israeli media outlet Mako, Waddingham revealed that both she and her daughter have become devoted fans of Kirel's Eurovision entry "Unicorn." When asked about Kirel's Eurovision performance, Waddingham responded enthusiastically: "Of course I remember the song! She's stunning. My daughter was 9 at the time and we were both obsessed with that song." The actress went further in her praise, saying: "If people don't know her, they need to discover her. She's a firecracker, that girl is a total star in every way."
Hannah Waddingham Praises Noa Kirel
The "Ted Lasso" star and Eurovision host says she and her daughter share an obsession with Kirel's "Unicorn" song
Waddingham built her career primarily as a respected theater actress in London's West End before gaining wider recognition through television roles. Many viewers remember her as the Shame Nun Unella in "Game of Thrones," the character who led the chants of "Shame" during Cersei's walk of punishment. She also appeared in a small role in the 2012 film adaptation of "Les Misérables." However, her major international breakthrough came with "Ted Lasso," more than two decades into her career. The Apple TV+ comedy series earned her an Emmy Award and two consecutive Golden Globe nominations, transforming her into a globally recognized name. In 2023, she was selected to host the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Kirel has experienced a remarkable year herself. Following a major concert at Amphitheater MAX, she became a mentor on the Israeli version of "The Voice" on Channel 13. She is now set to participate in Festigal 2026, marking the Israeli children's entertainment institution's 45th anniversary. Recently, she released her first colored vinyl edition, featuring her biggest hits from the past decade, including "Pouch & Pantera," "Unicorn," "Trilili Tralala" with Ilan Peled, "Million Dollar" with Shahar Saul, and "Bridezilla."
Waddingham's endorsement adds to the growing international recognition Kirel has received in recent years. From her Eurovision appearance to major performances in Israel, the pop star continues to demonstrate that Israeli music can capture hearts internationally—including those of Hollywood stars and their daughters.
