Keshet International (KI) has extended the global footprint of its hit studio format "The Search" with a new adaptation for Belgium’s VRT, marking the first-ever kids version of the physical word search competition. Co-produced by KI and Youngest Media, "The Search" transforms a traditional word puzzle into a full-scale television event with a giant LED grid, fast-paced rounds, and an emphasis on quick thinking and physical gameplay.
For this latest iteration, the format has been adapted by Belgian producer Free Kings for Ketnet, VRT’s digital-first youth and children’s channel. Retitled "Lettersoep" ("Alphabet Soup"), the series consists of 30 episodes of 15 minutes each and is hosted by Ketnet’s own Emma Vanthielen. With its vibrant set design and a 64-square LED word grid, the Belgian version is specifically designed to engage children with language and logic-based challenges. The show will premiere in two batches: one later in 2025 and the second in early 2026.
According to Free Kings co-founders and co-CEOs Geert Willems and Muriel Maebe, the educational potential of the format made it an easy fit for Ketnet. “When Keshet International introduced us to 'The Search', we instantly recognized its potential—not just as a high-energy entertainment format, but as a clever way to engage young viewers with language and learning. Visually dynamic, fast-paced, and inherently playful, the format offered us the perfect foundation to create something both fun and enriching. We’re extremely proud of the result and believe 'Lettersoep' has a bright future ahead—not only as a format that entertains, but one that educates and inspires.”
Annemie Gulickx, Channel Manager for Ketnet, added: “When Free Kings presented the format for 'Lettersoep', we immediately saw the potential. Language is an important theme for Ketnet as part of the public broadcaster, and 'Lettersoep' fills a gap by combining entertainment with language learning. It also marks the return of a studio quiz to Ketnet after many years. We’re very excited about the show and hope that children and their parents will enjoy playing along later this year.”
Kelly Wright, Managing Director of Distribution at Keshet International, emphasized the adaptability and proven success of the format. “What makes 'The Search' so compelling as a format is its adaptability. At its heart is a brilliantly simple concept—finding answers hidden in a giant LED word grid—but every version can be uniquely tailored to reflect local tastes, audiences, and broadcasters’ needs. Its proven success on Aragón TV, where 'Sopa de Letras' has stripped daily across three seasons and increased the channel’s share by 39%, demonstrates its broad appeal and scalability. We’re especially excited to see the format evolve further with its first kids’ adaptation on VRT’s Ketnet, opening the door to new audiences and new opportunities elsewhere.”
"Lettersoep" becomes the third local version of "The Search" following earlier adaptations in Uruguay and Spain. In Uruguay, Canal 4 launched "Sopa de Letras," which led to an expanded order of 70 episodes. In Spain, Aragón TV’s daily adaptation produced by The MediaPro Studio has aired over 150 episodes across three seasons since its October 2024 debut, achieving a slot average of 8.6% share—up 39% from previous programming—and peak ratings of 16.4%.
Now with a children’s version tailored for digital-first youth audiences, "The Search" continues to demonstrate its versatility and potential for international growth. The Belgian edition reinforces Keshet International’s strategic push into educational entertainment while broadening the format’s demographic appeal across linear and digital platforms.