Hugo Egon Balder, a beloved figure in German television, has had a profound impact on the entertainment landscape since the 1980s. He has recently shared his thoughts on the revival of classic comedy shows, particularly the cult hit Sketchup. Balder believes this show, which aired in the 1980s, could resonate with today's audiences, echoing the sentiment that humor is a timeless commodity.
On the brink of his 75th birthday on March 22, 2025, Balder expressed excitement about the potential revival during an interview with the Deutsche Presse-Agentur. “If I were in charge of a station, I’d be thinking about bringing Sketchup back. It would be a very cheap production to realize,” he remarked, recalling the show's simple yet effective format featuring comedians like Diether Krebs and Iris Berben.
Balder noted that the comedic style of Sketchup involved presenting one-liners and humor that has not lost its appeal. He argued that modern comedians, like Markus Krebs, continue this tradition effectively. “The jokes come back in style,” he stated, suggesting that a contemporary audience might welcome a show reminiscent of Sketchup.
The original series, which featured sketches from 1985 to the late '90s, was immensely popular and represents a significant part of Germany's television history. It was known for its entertaining skits and guest performances. “Wit never goes out of fashion,” added Balder, underscoring his belief that humor can bridge generational gaps.
After recognizing the potential cast for a new edition of the show, he whimsically mentioned Lars Eidinger. “Someone like Lars Eidinger would probably be interested in something like that,” he mused, hinting at a desire for a diverse and exciting lineup of performers.
Beyond the discussion of Sketchup, Balder has seen significant personal changes in his life. In August 2024, he quit smoking after over six decades. This significant lifestyle shift was spurred on by a heart-to-heart with his wife, who jokingly asked him to stop coughing during their shared moments. “It was right then and there that I decided to quit,” he shared, reflecting on how that conversation prompted him to make a huge change in his life.
As Balder prepares to celebrate his milestone birthday, he continues his tour with his new solo show titled “Erzählt es bloß nicht weiter!!” which began in November 2024. This performance highlights his knack for story-telling and connects the past with the present, reminding audiences of the humor that has characterized his television presence for decades.
Balder is not only a renowned face on television; he is also a family man. In an exclusive interview with GALA, he spoke about his relationship with his children, Saliha, 24, and Canel, 23. Both children joined him for an interview at his pub, a setting that fosters candid conversation.
His children shared insights into life with a famous father. Saliha, who resides in Cologne, commented on the perks of having a recognizable parent, like getting seated quickly at restaurants, though she emphasized that their father never leveraged his fame. “He doesn’t use it,” she stated, giving a glimpse into Balder's humility despite his celebrity status.
Canel, who recently moved to Hamburg, expressed joy in spending more time with his father, noting, “It’s nice that we are together more often now.” Balder's relaxed parenting style contributed to a harmonious family dynamic, emphasizing the importance of allowing his children to find their paths. “I didn’t impose anything on them,” he explained, sharing his belief in fostering autonomy.
In reminiscence, Balder and Saliha reflected on a cherished trip to London, where they walked across the famed Abbey Road. “If we’d been a little later, Paul McCartney would have passed us!” Bantering about their shared love for The Beatles, they illustrated the special bond they have forged through music and lasting memories.
While Balder acknowledges that he became a father later in life—at age 50—he has maintained a strong relationship with his children and his ex-wife, Meral Canan. After their marriage ended in 2011, the family remained close-knit, with Saliha attesting, “We’ve always had a good relationship.” Canel echoed this sentiment, highlighting the persistent affection and connection he has nurtured.
As Balder’s birthday approaches, he continues not only to entertain through television and live shows, but also through his relatable and genuine family experiences. His commitment to personal growth, highlighted by his decision to stop smoking, alongside his engagement with the evolving entertainment landscape, reveals a man who adapits while inspiring those around him.
In a world where nostalgia often dominates, Balder suggests that a revival of shows like Sketchup could blend the old with the new, attracting younger audiences while entertaining all ages. After all, humor continues to be a universal language—one that transcends time and place.
