ZDF separates itself from the stubborn Elke Heidenreich
The debate over the quality of German television has claimed a high-profile victim: ZDF is parting ways with its host Elke Heidenreich effective immediately. The relationship of trust between ZDF and Heidenreich has been permanently damaged by her public criticism, said Programming Director Thomas Bellut.
The debate about quality on German television has claimed a prominent victim: ZDF is parting ways with its presenter Elke Heidenreich with immediate effect. As program director Thomas Bellut explained on Thursday, the renowned author and literary critic had left the level of objective debate with her public statements and had publicly disparaged ZDF in a way that was no longer acceptable. The relationship of trust between ZDF and Heidenreich had been so permanently destroyed that "a prosperous and meaningful cooperation is no longer possible".
Heidenreich had attacked her station after literary critic Marcel Reich-Ranicki declined the honorary award for his life's work at the German Television Awards ceremony on October 11. "I thought what an imposition this pathetic, stupid event must be for him." Most of the nominated films and series were "pathetic", Heidenreich told the press. "You're ashamed to even work for a channel like this. As far as I'm concerned, kick me out now, I'm tired of fighting anyway."
Reich-Ranicki himself was able to understand the broadcaster's decision. He emphasized that his speech had referred solely to the ceremony. The interpretation that he had meant the German television programs as a whole in his scolding was "great nonsense": "I did not want to go to war with the broadcasters." ZDF announced that there will still be a literary program on ZDF after Heidenreich's departure. A follow-up concept is being worked on for 2009. Instead of the planned "Lesen!" programs, the cultural magazine "Aspekte" will be broadcast.
Heidenreich had attacked her station after literary critic Marcel Reich-Ranicki declined the honorary award for his life's work at the German Television Awards ceremony on October 11. "I thought what an imposition this pathetic, stupid event must be for him." Most of the nominated films and series were "pathetic", Heidenreich told the press. "You're ashamed to even work for a channel like this. As far as I'm concerned, kick me out now, I'm tired of fighting anyway."
Reich-Ranicki himself was able to understand the broadcaster's decision. He emphasized that his speech had referred solely to the ceremony. The interpretation that he had meant the German television programs as a whole in his scolding was "great nonsense": "I did not want to go to war with the broadcasters." ZDF announced that there will still be a literary program on ZDF after Heidenreich's departure. A follow-up concept is being worked on for 2009. Instead of the planned "Lesen!" programs, the cultural magazine "Aspekte" will be broadcast.
