Shahar Cohen: 'My life' comic laughs about 'managing the war' with Nescafe in hand

In this episode of 'What Matters Now,' host Jessica Steinberg interviews Shachar Cohen, the Jerusalem-born, Tel Aviv-based comedian whose satirical characters have become a cultural touchstone during Israel's ongoing war. Cohen, known for his instantly recognizable personas like Nofar, the alert room girl, and the American girl Amanda, uses humor to process the chaos of daily life under constant threat. His content—centered around instant Nescafe, shelter living, and military alerts—has gone viral globally, especially after October 7th, when audiences sought comic relief amid trauma. Cohen reveals his creative process, from filming solo in his apartment to crafting characters based on real-life observations and audience requests. He discusses the unique position he holds as an Israeli entertainer who remains in demand both locally and internationally, even as many of his peers face boycotts. As he prepares for a U.S. tour with updated material, including potential live appearances of his characters, Cohen emphasizes the therapeutic power of laughter in dark times. The episode also highlights the importance of storytelling in shaping global perceptions of Israel, echoing themes from a companion segment featuring Scott Galloway. Key takeaways include: 1) Humor is a vital survival tool during war, not a distraction; 2) Authenticity and relatability—especially through exaggerated yet recognizable characters—drive viral success; 3) Comedians like Cohen are now cultural ambassadors, shaping narratives in real time; 4) Audience engagement fuels content creation, with fans actively shaping character arcs; 5) The line between personal expression and national identity is increasingly blurred for Israeli creators. The overall tone is reflective, resilient, and deeply human, with a strong undercurrent of hope and purpose.