RTL Samstag Nacht

RTL Samstag Nacht (1993-1998)

EndedScripted showComedy

RTL Samstag Nacht was a comedy show, which ran from 6 November 1993 to 23 May 1998 on the German TV network RTL. RTL Samstag Nacht was the first major comedy show in German television, created after the example of the long-running American show Saturday Night Live and broadcast late on Saturday night. It helped comedy in German television to a breakthrough and was a model for several later comedy shows.

Karl Ranseier was a recurring character featured in fake news reports telling about his death at the end of each episode. The name Karl Ranseier has become a catchphrase in Germany that has led to its own joke category of Ranseiers which are in widespread usage outside of the comedy origin.

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S05E30Piet Klocke & Simone ThomallaMai 23, 1998
S05E29Anja Franke & Markus Maria ProfitlichMai 16, 1998
S05E28Rudiger HoffmannMai 9, 1998
S05E27Christoph Bruske & Andy SteilApr. 25, 1998
S05E26Ingo Appelt & DJ BoboApr. 18, 1998
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did the first episode of RTL Samstag Nacht premiere?

The first episode of RTL Samstag Nacht premiered on November 6, 1993.

Who were the original hosts of the show?

Wigald Boning and Olli Dittrich were the original hosts of RTL Samstag Nacht.

What was the format of the show?

The format of the show consisted of comedy sketches, parodies, and musical performances.

What inspired the creation of the show?

The show's creators were inspired by the success of Saturday Night Live in the United States.

Who were some of the recurring performers on the show?

Some of the recurring performers on the show included Bastian Pastewka, Esther Schweins, and Michael Mittermeier.

Did the show receive any awards during its run?

Yes, the show won the prestigious Adolf Grimme Award in 1994.

What were some of the show's most popular recurring sketches?

Some of the show's most popular recurring sketches included "RTL-Caf\u00e9," "Die Doofen," and "Ivan & Alexander."

Was the show controversial at any point during its run?

Yes, the show faced criticism for its use of blackface in a sketch titled "La Boum Deluxe."

Who were some of the guest hosts on the show?

Guest hosts on the show included Michael "Bully" Herbig, Marietta Slomka, and Diether Krebs.

How many episodes were produced during the show's run?

A total of 84 episodes of RTL Samstag Nacht were produced.

Was the show successful in terms of ratings during its run?

Yes, the show was very successful in terms of ratings, often attracting more than 10 million viewers.

Did the show feature any recurring characters?

Yes, the show featured several recurring characters, including the fitness trainer "B\u00e4rbel Sch\u00e4fer" and the fashion expert "Ulla Laux."

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