Stefan Raab and Michael Bully Herbig recently teamed up to deliver their new game show, Stefan und Bully gegen irgendson Schnulli, which has sparked mixed reactions from viewers. The premiere on December 21, 2024, on RTL was highly anticipated, drawing attention not only because of the return of Raab, known for his previous shows like Schlag den Raab, but also due to the comedic talents of Herbig.
The show's format involved contestants competing against the duo, with opportunities to win substantial monetary prizes. Each contestant faced off against Raab and Herbig after defeating three other competitors. Given the structure of the show, many viewers found familiarity within the setup, reminiscent of Raab's previous projects. Indeed, the nostalgic air was evident as audiences debated whether the show was innovative or simply rehashing old concepts.
One contestant, identified as Marc, made headlines by clinching the €250,000 prize. After facing some challenges, including losing the initial rounds, Marc turned the tide and showcased his skills across multiple challenges, eventually earning the top spot and captivating the audience's attention. This turnaround highlights the unpredictable nature of competition and the resilience of participants. The final victories culminated around 1:30 AM, following five extensive hours of programming.
Viewer feedback has been sharply divided on social media platforms. While some viewers appreciated the entertainment value, many voiced concerns over Raab's demeanor during the show. Comments ranged from disparaging remarks about Raab's perceived arrogance to acknowledgments of Herbig's humorous attempts to balance the dynamic. Some fans, recalling happier memories of Raab’s earlier shows, expressed disappointment, saying, "Früher fand ich Raab mal toll, und ich war traurig, als den Abschied von vor der Kamera verkündete. Mittlerweile finde ich ihn nur noch überholt und nervend."
Beyond Raab's antics, criticisms also extended to the show's pacing and length, with certain viewers feeling it dragged on excessively. Observations like, "Raab ist mit seiner Rechthaberei irgendwie sehr nervig…" underlined frustrations with the format's prolonged nature, leading some to liken the experience to enduring recurring performances rather than fresh entertainment. The communal sentiment suggests a longing for streamlined and more engaging programming, especially during primetime slots.
During the show, several moments drew laughter and applause, particularly when Herbig humorously quipped, "Raab braucht keiner. Bully gegen Schnulli - reicht," emphasizing the hope for lighter exchanges between the team and the contestants. Nonetheless, the overall spectacle provided glimmers of excitement, making room for spirited competition and the essence of light-hearted rivalry.
RTL’s ambition behind the show is clear; marketing it as a festive special, the show was promoted as part of holiday entertainment, labeled by network executives as part of the joy of Christmas festivities. The competition format involving various games tested contestants' skills, from trivia challenges to physical games, reinforcing the entertainment aspect of the evening.
Despite its lofty ambitions, the execution prompted debate on whether or not the collaboration between Raab and Herbig could sustain viewer interest over time. The historical drawing power of both personalities is undeniable, but whether their chemistry resonates broadly with contemporary audiences remains to be seen.
Going forward, only time will tell if Stefan und Bully gegen irgendson Schnulli evolves or maintains its place within the German entertainment scene. Previous Raab shows have left indelible marks on audiences, prompting reflections on his legacy against the backdrop of current viewer expectations. The feedback flowing through social media channels will prove insightful, possibly influencing the future direction of the show and its continuing appeal.
