Austria is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved cultural figures, Hermes Phettberg, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 72. Known for his iconic role as the host of the popular TV show Nette Leit Show, Phettberg left behind a legacy as both a multifaceted artist and cultural commentator.
Phettberg, born Josef Fenz, was not just entertaining; he was also seen as a commentator on the quirks of life, often bringing humor and wit to serious discussions. His television career really took off in the mid-1990s when he began hosting the Nette Leit Show, which quickly became known for its unique blend of entertainment and philosophy. With 19 episodes aired, Phettberg showcased various guests, including astrologer Gerda Rogers, comedian Josef Hader, and football manager Didi Constantini, who also passed away recently.
Reflecting on his past, Phettberg once said, "Leb wohl lieber Freund" (Latin for "Farewell dear friend"), as reported by his caregiver Hannes Moser on Facebook. This simple statement echoes the sentiment of countless fans and friends who were touched by his spirit.
Born to winemakers in Lower Austria, Phettberg's early life was far removed from the spotlight. He worked as a bank employee for several years before transitioning to the role of pastoral assistant within the Archdiocese of Vienna. Notably, he enjoyed exploring the rich intertwining of art, culture, and social commentary—traits displayed during his time with the Sparverein Die Unz-Ertrennlichen theatre group.
Phettberg’s Nette Leit Show was more than just entertainment; it was also culturally significant. It challenged social norms and provoked thought among its viewers. According to former Cultural City Councilor Andreas Mailath-Pokorny, Phettberg was considered "a radical and subjective observer of Vienna’s daily life," contributing to the cultural history of Austria through his unique lens.
Throughout his career, Phettberg explored provocative themes, including through his sadomasochistic art actions, showcasing his diverse talents. He also garnered various accolades, including the Franz-Grillparzer Prize from the Anonymous Actionists and the City of Vienna’s Award for Journalism.
Even after suffering multiple strokes, Phettberg persevered, demanding attention for his projects. The documentary Hermes Phettberg, Elender, released in 2007, offered insights from conversations between Phettberg and his friend Kurt Palm, illuminating his life and career. His art continued to inspire the younger generation, with contemporary music acts seeking him out for collaborations, an affirmation of his lasting influence.
His unique perspective remained relevant even as he faced health challenges; he often commented on his resilience and continued engagement with pop culture. It seemed he couldn’t escape his role as the cultural outlier. He mused, "Junge Bands scheinen mich zu mögen" ("Young bands seem to like me"), indicating his surreal acceptance among rising artists.
Culture Minister Werner Kogler also shared heartwarming remarks, describing Phettberg as "radical and ruthless, with his body and his entire life, suffering and despairing yet full of humor and the unyielding curiosity of a child," ending with, "Rest in peace, Hermes Phettberg."
Hermes Phettberg's death marks the end of an era for many Austrians who embraced his provocative yet humorous take on societal issues. His life serves as a reminder of the power of creativity and consciousness, capturing both the light and the shadows of Austrian culture. While his physical presence has left this world, his influence will undoubtedly linger as long as his works are cherished and remembered.
