It seems that even in these days of streaming there is still a place for the German TV personality.
Thomas Gottshalk is clearly missed by ZDF, the public network where he ended a five year run on Wetten, dass last September. Dr Nadine Bilke, the programme director, told the ANGA COM content panel that as a public broadcaster it wants to offer something for everyone, just that not everyone can find them. “For us, it wasn’t just the last Wetten, dass with Thomas Gottschalk, but also evergreens like the mountain series, which are not as unpopular with the young linear audience as those who don’t like watching them think. That’s a widespread prejudice.”
Over at RTL, the managing director of programming Inga Leschek is preparing to offer a TV comeback to Stefan Raab. RTL is to broadcast the entertainer’s third attempt at a boxing match. Raab, who suffered a broken nose last time around, was previously a face to viewers of ProSieben.
“Stefan Rabb disappeared for ten years, or at least he only worked behind the scenes. Now he’s keen to come back and I’m really pleased that he’s doing it with us. I know the process and I can tell you it will be the greatest thing he’s ever done,” said Leschek.
“Stefan Rabb is a brand that I think you would have to search for a long time. So, he was a small light on social media with 150,000 followers, then announced the resurrection at Easter and within four days had managed to reach three million followers with two reels that were watched by a total of 100 million people. And I would say that speaks volumes for the fact that many people are curious about what he looks like, how he’s doing, what he’s like, whether he’s fit or unfit.”
The answer will come on 14 September at 8.15 pm on RTL.
Gaumont has found success with a Disney Commission. Deutsches Haus, a five part series that deals with the Frankfurt Auschwitz trial. A show of hands in the audience found more than half had a Disney+ subscriotion, but still there was a craving for a free TV showing.
Sabinede Mardt, chief executive, Gaumont GmbH explains “Deutsches Haus was still a classic full commission. Ultimately, Disney Plus decides. Deutsches Haus deals with a very relevant topic and in a special way, which is always our aim, to convey relevant topics in a light-hearted way. And that’s why we are of course considering whether it can be shown on free TV and talks are being held.”
