INTRODUCTION
Mergui (@mergui) is a dynamic Israeli singer, songwriter, and dancer who has successfully transitioned from a teen reality star to an international pop force. Known for his soul-infused vocals and R&B-pop fusion, he is one of Israel’s most prominent musical exports. Now based in Los Angeles, he is carving out a global career while remaining a central figure in the Mediterranean entertainment landscape.
Birth name: Yehonatan Ya’akov Mergui
Career
Singer, Songwriter, Actor, Dancer
Birthday
February 10, 2000
Age: 26
Zodiac Sign:
Aquarius
Birthplace: Tel Aviv, Israel
Nationality: Israeli
HOW BIG IS Mergui ON THE NET?
Mergui is a massive digital influencer with over 650,000 followers on Instagram and a growing international audience on TikTok. His music has amassed hundreds of millions of streams globally, particularly with his crossover hits. He is signed to Saban Music Group, which has helped him secure major opportunities, including opening for superstars like Bruno Mars and Maroon 5 for audiences of over 60,000 people.
HOW DID Mergui become famous?
Mergui skyrocketed to fame at age 17 as the runner-up on the fifth season of Rising Star (the same season won by Netta Barzilai). He became an instant heartthrob, often referred to as the “Justin Bieber of Israel.” His popularity was further cemented by a high-profile, three-year relationship with pop star Noa Kirel. In 2022, he shifted focus to the global market with his first English-language EP, Dark Side of the Rainbow, featuring the viral hit “Sucks to Know You (F.U.)”.
BEFORE THE FAME
Mergui grew up in a deeply musical and artistic household in Tel Aviv; his mother is a singer and his father is a prominent designer. Before his musical breakthrough, he was a serious soccer player, but he eventually gave up the sport to commute over two hours each way to attend an arts-focused high school. He served his mandatory military service in the IDF’s Entertainment Corps, where he performed for soldiers alongside other young stars.
CLOSE WITH (ASSOCIATED);
Mergui is currently one half of another Israeli power couple, having been in a relationship with pop star and model Anna Zak since late 2023. His professional network is elite, including collaborations with producers like Johnny Goldstein and industry mogul Haim Saban. He shares a history with Noa Kirel and Netta Barzilai, and his international sound aligns him with artists like The Weeknd and Charlie Puth, both of whom he has cited as stylistic inspirations.