Kobi Marimi
The 27-year-old Kobi Marimi will represent Israel at the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest. Kobi was born in Ramat Gan, Israel and started singing at the age of 13. After graduating from high school, majoring in theatre, he followed his passion for the stage and studied in an acting studio, for 3 years trying to build the confidence he felt he was lacking. He got much more than that; Kobi lost more than 50 kilos, starred in several plays and even won a 'Promise of the Year' award for his achievements.Even though Kobi pursued acting growing up, Kobi had no real professional music experience until he decided to participate and compete in the hit reality show Rising Star. Throughout the show, Kobi gained more and more public attention for his unique style and vocal capabilities, which ended with him reaching the finals, winning this year's competition and along with it, the chance to represent Israel at the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv.
Since he became the Israeli representative, Kobi has become the nation's sweetheart. His soulful singing has brought him 'home', which is the title of his participating song. The song was written especially for him, bringing his personal story and struggles to the stage.
