Andreas Hahn, a beloved television moderator known for his engaging personality and humor, has died at the age of 59 in Berlin. His passing marks a significant loss for the broadcasting landscape in Brandenburg, where he became a household name through his popular game show, "Der Sonne entgegen." The news of his death was confirmed by Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg (rbb), which did not disclose the cause of death.
Hahn began his career in the media industry in 1992 as a sports reporter at Ostdeutscher Rundfunk Brandenburg (ORB). His passion for sports was evident, particularly his support for the local football club, FC Energie Cottbus. Over the years, he developed a close friendship with boxer Axel Schulz, who is also well-known in the region.
In September 1997, Hahn launched "Der Sonne entgegen," a game show that quickly became a staple of the ORB programming. The show's premise was simple yet captivating: passersby were given the chance to win a week-long vacation, provided they could leave everything behind and depart immediately. This unique format, combined with Hahn's charm and quick wit, made the show a hit among viewers.
From the eighth episode onward, Hahn famously greeted his audience with the phrase, "Hallo Brandenburg, hallo Welt," a catchphrase that resonated with many and became a signature line throughout the show's run, which lasted until 2007. His ability to connect with people was evident as he traveled through towns and villages, searching for contestants, often greeting them with warm hugs.
Hahn's influence extended beyond just entertainment; he was a familiar face in the region and a beloved ambassador for Brandenburg. His friendly demeanor and genuine interest in the lives of those he met contributed to his popularity, making him a cherished figure in the hearts of many.
In honor of Hahn's legacy, rbb has announced a special programming change. On Friday, May 9, 2025, starting at 22:00, the network will air eleven episodes of "Der Sonne entgegen." Additionally, a special episode titled "Der Sonne entgegen XXL – Traumreisen," originally aired in 2018, will be broadcast on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 16:20. This retrospective will allow fans to revisit some of the show's most memorable moments and celebrate the joy it brought to viewers.
Andreas Hahn's contribution to television and the warmth he brought into homes across Brandenburg will not be forgotten. His legacy lives on through the smiles he inspired and the memories shared by his audience. As the region mourns his loss, it also remembers a remarkable career that enriched the lives of many.
