Kai Pflaume's hit ARD show 'Klein gegen Groß' has become known for showcasing star-studded appearances and extraordinary young talents. Recently, the show featured music icon Helene Fischer, who presented children’s songs live for the first time. Equally noteworthy was the cameo of former Formula 1 star Ralf Schumacher, who, together with partner Étienne, made his debut on the program. The couple rolled up to the studio styled perfectly, with Étienne at the wheel of their convertible, jokingly remarking, "I am getting to an age where I’m driven around." It was clear from the outset, Pflaume had composed another entertaining evening for his guests.
But how did the ratings reflect this evening's festivities? According to industry portal 'DWDL', the latest episode drew 5.12 million viewers, translating to an audience share of 21.8%. Despite this decent turnout, it wasn't enough to outpace the competition from the ZDF network, which captivated 7.33 million viewers with the crime drama 'Ein starkes Team – Der tote Mörder', achieving a remarkable 28.7% market share.
Among younger viewers aged 14 to 49, 'Klein gegen Groß' fared slightlybetter, securing 0.87 million viewers and reaching 19.8%, overshadowing ZDF's drama, which only drew 0.38 million viewers (8.3%). Clearly, Kai Pflaume and his game show still hold considerable appeal among younger audiences, though the ratings from last week's episode left something to be desired compared to prior expectations. Even the 'TV Total Promi-Wrestling' segment fell short, attracting only 0.4 million viewers, lagging behind RTL's 'Eltons 12'. Attempts at measuring up to Pflaume’s success seem increasingly challenging.
The excitement continues as the next episode of 'Klein gegen Groß' prepares for broadcast on February 1, 2025. Once again, the show will place talented children, aged five to fourteen years, in direct competition with celebrities across various domains. The anticipation builds surrounding who will face off against these gifted children this time around.
Kai Pflaume's show has captivated audiences for years with its distinctive concept—a vibrant mix of child competitors showcasing skills ranging from mental prowess, like memorizing the capitals of various countries, to physical challenges, such as extraordinary juggling acts. Regardless of their performance, every child receives something to commemorate their appearance, whether it’s travel opportunities, musical instruments, or the latest gadgets.
While the celebrity participants remain tightly under wraps until shortly before each episode airs, the engagement of notable figures from sports, entertainment, and culture brings additional layers of intrigue. Previous editions included personalities such as Ralf Schumacher and actor Jan Josef Liefers, who added to the star-studded allure of the competitions. Interestingly, aside from the fierce duels, another dimension of the competition exists where participating celebrities can wager on the outcomes, adding even more stakes to the show.
Those correct predictions earn points, and the celebrity with the highest score at the show's conclusion gets to allocate €30,000 to their chosen charity project, reinforcing the show’s philanthropic spirit. This dual approach not only entertains but also contributes positively to the society, making 'Klein gegen Groß' more than just another game show. Kai Pflaume has been the constant force behind the show since the '90s, sustaining its popularity through engaging content and innovative formats.
With much anticipation building for the upcoming episode, audience members are left wondering not only about the star guests but also the unique challenges they will face. Each new installment of 'Klein gegen Groß' promises excitement and surprises, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats and eager to see how the young competitors rise to the occasion. This mix of heartwarming competition, celebrity interactions, and meaningful charitable contributions keeps the audience coming back for more and solidifies Kai Pflaume's legacy as the steady hand of this cherished ARD show.