German broadcaster RTL is investing heavily in Stefan Raab’s TV comeback. This high-stakes move carries more risks than opportunities and reveals the private broadcaster’s desperate state.
A legend’s struggle to regain relevance
Stefan Raab, once a TV giant on ProSieben, is making his return to television after a nine-year hiatus. However, his initial attempt to rebrand as an influencer on Instagram has fallen short, with only 2.6 million followers instead of his targeted 9 million. His social media efforts, including comedy sketches in a fat suit, have failed to generate significant interest.
Despite Raab’s efforts to promote his upcoming show, public interest seems focused solely on how the 57-year-old will look after his long absence from TV. This lukewarm reception to his online presence raises questions about the potential success of his television comeback.
A costly gamble for RTL
RTL is set to air Raab’s return live on Saturday evening primetime: a boxing match between Regina Halmich and Stefan Raab. While this event is expected to draw millions of viewers, it comes at a high price and carries significant risks.
The first Raab-Halmich boxing match in 2001 drew 7.64 million viewers on ProSieben, with a rematch in 2007 attracting 9.74 million viewers. However, these events took place 17 and 23 years ago, respectively. Critics argue that the idea of airing another showdown in primetime on linear TV feels outdated in today’s media landscape.
According to industry reports, RTL has signed a four-year contract with Raab’s new company, costing between 90 million and 250 million euros. While RTL remains silent on the exact figures, the investment is undoubtedly substantial.
A risky bet on past glory
RTL’s decision to invest heavily in Raab, whose recent productions have largely flopped, demonstrates the broadcaster’s desperation for a ratings boost. This move also highlights RTL’s trend of acquiring former ProSieben content and personalities, including shows like “Blamieren oder Kassieren” and “Schlag den Besten,” as well as hiring former ProSieben talents like Elton and the “TV total” band Heavytones.
Meanwhile, ProSieben has successfully moved on from the Raab era, with popular shows like “Schlag den Star” and a new host for “TV total.” The network’s partnership with Florida Entertainment has produced innovative content like “Wer stiehlt mir die Show?”
As RTL pins its hopes on Raab’s comeback, the TV landscape has evolved significantly. While the boxing match may deliver high ratings for one night, the long-term success of this expensive gamble remains uncertain. RTL’s high-stakes bet on Raab’s return could either revitalize the network or become a costly misstep in an increasingly competitive and changing media environment.
