An Anniversary Worth Celebrating: 50 Years of “3nach9”
Gather ’round, folks! It’s time to raise a glass – preferably filled with something potent because we’re diving into the illustrious and slightly scandalous history of “3nach9,” Germany’s oldest talk show that’s been on air longer than most of my relationships! First airing on November 19, 1974, “3nach9” (thankfully not called “3nach8”) has tangled with taboos, befriended wild celebrities, and turned mundane evenings into a hodgepodge of chaotic conversation. In fact, it’s so venerable, it’s probably clocked more interview hours than I’ve clocked extra minutes on my treadmill – and look where that’s got me!
Back in the day, the show started quickly after nine in the evening (wonder what prompted that timing – early bedtime for the kids perhaps?). Enter the grand dame of German talk shows, Marianne Koch, who kicked off the whole shindig at just 43 – which means by the time I’m that age, my career might actually start resembling something… let’s not dwell on that too long!
Giacomo’s Legacy Enthroned
Presently commandeered by Giovanni di Lorenzo since 1989, with the brilliant Judith Rakers at his side since 2010, the show has featured more guests than I’ve had dodgy encounters with exes! Their motto? “We want to introduce people who have really good stories to tell.” This includes everyone from glitzy celebs to everyday legends no one’s heard of. It’s like Tinder for personalities – swiping left on boring and right on riveting!
Scandals? Oh Yes, Please!
And speaking of riveting, let’s not forget the scandals. Over the years, “3nach9” has had more drama than a soap opera crack addict. We’re talking about Communard Fritz Teufel launching water assaults on government figures. I mean, if I had a water pistol, I’d probably aim for more than just shoddy politicians! Then we had brothel operator Karl-Heinz Germersdorf receiving vintage wine showering therapy, courtesy of women’s rights activist Gerlinde Schilcher. And let’s not forget the time a guest outright bit a moderator! Who knew a talk show could double as a wrestling ring?
This Friday, November 15th, we’ll welcome the show’s queen, Marianne Koch – back on set at 93 years of age, looking better than most of my friends at half her age! With her multi-talented history, including a PhD in medicine and running her own practice, I reckon she’s got plenty of stories that might just leave us all questioning our life choices. What’s her secret? A magical elixir or is it just swanning about on talk show sets that keeps her so spry?
Wrapping it Up Like a Collaborative January 1st Hangover Cure
So here’s a toast to “3nach9”! A show that proves history doesn’t just happen, it’s made – preferably with a splash of scandal, a sprinkle of humor, and a hearty dose of unpredictability. Cheers to 600 editions, more guests than a talent contest, and enough stories to fill a library. To anyone who’s been a part of it: I salute you! Now let’s hope the anniversary isn’t just a polite chat over tea but more like a raucous family gathering – the type that leaves parents whispering about mannerisms and definitely no biting!
Here’s to another vibrant 50 years of stories and surprising antics, “3nach9” – let’s just hope for fewer water pistols and more unexpected wisdom!
Nearly five decades ago, on November 19, 1974, a groundbreaking talk show titled “3nach9” (originally known as “III nach 9”) made its debut, forever altering the landscape of German television. This program, which airs every four weeks on Fridays through various third-party channels, has now surpassed an impressive 600 episodes, earning its reputation as one of the oldest continuing shows in Germany. Renowned by the RB as the “mother of all talk shows,” its enduring legacy continues to shape the genre.
The title initially signified its starting time, shortly after nine in the evening. The “3” symbolized the trio of presenters who welcomed an eclectic mix of over 4,000 guests throughout its history, many of whom have delivered scandalous appearances. Notable incidents include Communard Fritz Teufel, who shot a federal minister with a water pistol; brothel operator Karl-Heinz Germersdorf, who was doused with a glass of wine by outraged activist Gerlinde Schilcher; and the biting incident involving a moderator. Moreover, actress Maria Schell faced insults from rocker Campino. While the live anniversary special on Friday, November 15th, will maintain a more subdued atmosphere, it will honor a true veteran: Marianne Koch, who at 93 years old, remains a cherished figure in the show’s history.
Marianne Koch, a distinguished figure who achieved remarkable success as an actress, was instrumental in forming the original moderation team for “3nach9” alongside Wolfgang Menge and Gert von Paczensky. Over the course of eight years, she witnessed and contributed to the program’s dynamic discourse, characterized by heated debates and unabashed banter. In addition to her television work, the multi-talented Koch pursued a doctorate in medicine and later opened her own internal medicine practice. As the guest of honor for the anniversary broadcast, the 93-year-old reflects on the show’s formative years and may even share her secrets to maintaining vitality and health well into her golden years. (tch)
How has “3nach9” influenced the talk show format in Germany according to Giovanni di Lorenzo?
**Interview with Giovanni di Lorenzo, Host of “3nach9”**
**Editor:** Today, we are thrilled to welcome Giovanni di Lorenzo, the longtime host of Germany’s iconic talk show “3nach9,” which celebrates its 50th anniversary this week. Giovanni, thank you for joining us!
**Giovanni di Lorenzo:** Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here to talk about this incredible milestone.
**Editor:** “3nach9” has become such a staple of German entertainment over the years. Looking back, what are some of your fondest memories from the show since you took over in 1989?
**Giovanni di Lorenzo:** Oh, there are so many! I’ve had the privilege of hosting countless amazing guests, some of whom have truly inspired me. Each episode is like opening a new chapter in a book, with stories you never expect. The absolute unpredictability of our guests often leads to the most memorable moments.
**Editor:** And what about scandals? The show has certainly had its fair share! How did those unforgettable moments contribute to its charm?
**Giovanni di Lorenzo:** (laughs) Yes, we’ve had our fare share of drama. It’s true that some episodes have felt more like a soap opera! But those moments remind us that life is colorful, and the unpredictability often makes for the best television. It keeps our audience engaged and yearning for more.
**Editor:** With the incredible legacy of “3nach9,” how do you think the show has influenced the talk show format in Germany?
**Giovanni di Lorenzo:** I believe “3nach9” has paved the way for more open and honest discussions. We’ve created a space where not just celebrities, but also everyday heroes can share their stories. It’s about celebrating the human experience, in all its facets, which I think is something that resonates deeply with viewers.
**Editor:** Coming back to this special anniversary, what’s it like to have Marianne Koch back on set at 93? She’s quite the legend!
**Giovanni di Lorenzo:** It’s nothing short of a joy! Marianne is a powerhouse of wisdom and grace. Her return is a testament to the show’s enduring spirit and the connections we’ve forged over the years. I can’t wait for our audience to witness her remarkable stories again. She proves that age is just a number!
**Editor:** As you look ahead, what do you hope the next 50 years of “3nach9” will bring?
**Giovanni di Lorenzo:** I hope we continue to surprise and entertain. Our formula of engaging stories and diverse guests remains timeless. If we can keep that spirit alive while adapting to the changes in media consumption, I am confident “3nach9” will thrive for generations to come.
**Editor:** Thank you, Giovanni, for sharing your insights and for your incredible work on “3nach9.” Here’s to the next chapter of the show!
**Giovanni di Lorenzo:** Thank you so much! Let’s raise a glass to the future! Cheers!