After nearly a decade, the beloved quiz show 'Wer weiß denn sowas?' is set to bid farewell to its team captain Elton. The long-awaited announcement regarding his departure came on March 8, 2025, during a heartfelt public statement where Elton revealed, "Die Entscheidung ist mir alles andere als leichtgefallen" (The decision was anything but easy for me). Over the course of his tenure since the show's inception on July 6, 2015, with its first guests Frank Elstner and Christine Neubauer, Elton has become an integral part of its success and charm.
As one-third of the hallmark trio that includes moderator Kai Pflaume and fellow team captain Bernhard Hoëcker, Elton has captivated millions of viewers during more than 1,200 episodes. Notably, 'Wer weiß denn sowas?' regularly achieves market shares of over 20 percent and boasts an impressive viewership, often exceeding 3.3 million per episode. It's clear that Elton's presence made a significant contribution to the show's popularity – he won 545 out of almost 1,300 episodes, underscoring his status not just as a humorous entertainer but also a legitimate quiz competitor.
Elton expressed that this decision was influenced by his desire to dedicate more time to family, friends, and himself. "Es war eine Ehre, zehn Jahre lang ein so großartiges Publikum unterhalten zu dürfen" (It has been an honor to entertain such a wonderful audience for ten years), he stated, exemplifying the bittersweet nature of his farewell.
The ARD has expressed its commitment to continuing the show in its current form, assuring viewers that Bernhard Hoëcker will remain as the team captain. ARD entertainment coordinator Andreas Gerling reflected fondly on their early collaborations, stating, "Lieber Elton, ich erinnere mich noch genau an unser erstes Gespräch vor zehn Jahren" (Dear Elton, I still vividly remember our first conversation ten years ago), highlighting the deep connections formed over the years.
Christine Strobl, the ARD program director, praised Elton's engaging presence on the show: "Er hat Menschen zusammengebracht, ob Jung oder Alt, ... und hinterlässt damit große Fußstapfen" (He brought people together, whether young or old, ... and leaves behind big shoes to fill). This sentiment mirrors the feelings of fans who eagerly anticipate which personality will step into Elton's shoes come the show's next season.
While Elton's successor has yet to be announced, the ARD has promised that the information will be disclosed in due time. Fans need not worry as they prepare for his grand farewell episode, airing on April 26, 2025, at 8:15 PM. This special edition will celebrate his contributions to the show, echoing the lasting impact Elton has left on its legacy.
In addition to celebrating Elton's time on 'Wer weiß denn sowas?', the show plans to highlight his humorous antics that fans have come to love. From impromptu dance moves to playful banter with Kai Pflaume, Elton's memorable moments have woven themselves into the fabric of the show’s identity. As a cherished team captain, he has not only entertained viewers but fostered a sense of community among quiz lovers across generations.
As viewers await what comes next, it remains clear that Elton's journey will not end here. The talented entertainer is set to appear on RTL's upcoming game show 'Drei gegen einen – Die Show der Champions,' marking another chapter in his career post-'Wer weiß denn sowas?'. Moreover, Elton's return in programs such as 'Du gewinnst hier nicht die Million bei Stefan Raab' further assures fans that his charm and wit will remain present in the entertainment landscape, even if the quiz show that first brought him into their homes will continue without him.
As the anticipation builds for Elton’s final appearance on 'Wer weiß denn sowas?', a mix of nostalgia and expectation lingers. The quiz show has not only been a success in numbers but a phenomenon that’s stitched itself deep into the lives of those who tuned in week after week, celebrating knowledge, laughter, and camaraderie.
With his departure imminent, one can only hope that Elton’s successor can carry on the legacy together with Hoëcker and Pflaume, building on the strong foundation he helped shape. The departure marks the end of an era, but the love for 'Wer weiß denn sowas?' and its endearing team members continues to thrive. Fans undoubtedly look forward to the upcoming special and what the future holds for one of Germany's favorite quiz shows.
