Last but not least: Kleber lets the mirror sit again
«I’m happy to accept this offer from *Der Spiegel*.» With this testimonial, ZDF anchor Claus Kleber is promoting the magazine’s new knowledge portal. That’s quite self-deprecating coming from a man who was once publicly considered a contender for the top job at the news powerhouse.
"I gladly accept this offer from Der Spiegel". ZDF presenter Claus Kleber uses this testimonial to promote the magazine's new knowledge portal. Quite self-deprecating from the man who was once publicly considered for the top job at the news heavyweight. You might think so. But wait: the exercise has to be aborted because ZDF has officially refused to give its approval for the advertising appearance. According to the FAZ and Süddeutsche Zeitung, the story goes like this: Der Spiegel approached Kleber with his idea. He thought it was quite funny, but wanted to get permission from his employer, who is allowed to dictate to his employees whether and where they advertise. The second waved it off, but Kleber subsequently "neglected" to inform the Hamburg news magazine. However, Der Spiegel had already gone into action and had the ad printed. Kleber then demanded that the advertisement be stopped immediately and that a "considerable sum" be donated to the Rory Peck Foundation as an apology.
So everyone benefits: various media outlets report on the blunder and thus elevate the advertisement to the editorial section. Claus Kleber can once again bask in the glow of his former request for the top job. And a good cause receives a donation. A win-win situation as it is written in the book. Only the advertising people at Der Spiegel now have to think up a new subject very quickly.
