Frank Plasberg, 65, cleared the “Hard but fair” stage for Louis Klamroth, 33. But anyone who expected that the significant age difference would give the ARD talk show a new form and a new character was mistaken. Just as little as the innovations announced for the premiere took place, so little did Klamroth attempt to define the format through his person. Youth does not protect against old age.
More fair than unfair
Klamroth’s entry with the topic “A country is getting poorer – who will pay the 2023 crisis bill” was more fair than unfair. There was little or no sign of harshness in the discussion. That doesn’t mean that only the talk show is good, where the shreds fly, but you have to make sure that the 75 minutes don’t come across as sluggish.
Klamroth took few risks (he doesn’t have to), he provided the participants with the necessary keywords. He used feature films such as Brigitte Büscher’s street surveys to broaden the subject. His editors worked very carefully, didn’t want to set any traps for Klamroth or embarrass him. Even if there was a lack of momentum, indeed of the necessary aggressiveness, Louis Klamroth made us want more.
“Hart but fair” immediately wanted to counter the repeated accusation that public television in particular was closer to the buffets than to the people in the country. Among the guests was Engin Kelik, a metal worker and family man, and proof in person that it takes hard work and effort for someone like him to cope with rising prices on so many levels of everyday life.
Klamroth was clever enough to let Kelik speak whenever the rest of the round was lost in numbers, data and facts. When reality meets politics – the long-serving “Haf” motto has not had its day with the new moderator.
The group did not seek confrontation
The group of business wise men Monika Schnitzer, SPD leader Lars Klingbeil, CSU man Jens Spahn and the “Spiegel” journalist Melanie Amann were not out for a fight, confrontation was not the goal, but there were different nuances. So should everyone be relieved of the gas price cap or should the rich with a swimming pool be exempted. Would an “energy solo” be justified for this group?
Deceptive packaging for groceries, no or less VAT on certain groceries – the discussion sped through the wide range of topics without stopping anywhere. Because the following aspects were also addressed, the next “Haf” programs could deal with justice in society and the massive loss of trust among citizens. This development in particular must worry everyone, right?
If Louis Klamroth expands on the path he has taken – and he has the potential – then he becomes a danger. For the Anne Wills, Maybrit Illners and Sandra Maischbergers, who have occupied the public talks for years and decades. Age does not protect against youth.
To home page
