In a significant shift for Germany's most-watched news program, the "Tagesschau," journalist Romy Hiller will take over as the new moderator of the evening edition starting June 14, 2025. This announcement was made by the Norddeutsche Rundfunk (NDR), which produces the program.
At 43 years old, Hiller is no stranger to the world of news broadcasting. She has been part of the ARD-aktuell team since 2018 and has previously moderated various segments, including the morning edition at 9 a.m., night broadcasts, and the 24-hour news channel, "tagesschau24." Her experience in journalism, particularly in breaking news situations, has prepared her well for this pivotal role.
"I grew up with the evening gong," Hiller reflected, emphasizing the importance of the "Tagesschau" in her family life. "The program was simply part of our evening routine." Her dedication to delivering reliable journalism resonates with viewers, as she aims to foster trust and connection with the audience. Hiller's first broadcast will mark a significant moment in her career, transitioning from a background in private broadcasting to the prestigious role of leading the flagship news program.
Born on June 24, 1981, in Wismar, Hiller grew up in Kühlungsborn, a coastal town on the Baltic Sea. She began her career in local media, working for Antenne Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and RTL Nord before moving to national news outlets. From 2005 to 2019, she served as an author and correspondent for "RTL aktuell" and n-tv, honing her skills in reporting and presenting news.
Hiller's journey to the "Tagesschau" was not without its surprises. "I was actually aiming to become a foreign correspondent," she admitted, noting that her path naturally shifted toward moderation. "I didn’t expect this opportunity, but I am very happy with how things turned out." Her unexpected promotion came just before a planned vacation, catching her off guard when the editor-in-chief approached her.
The "Tagesschau" holds a special place in German broadcasting history, being the oldest television news program still in existence. It commands an impressive viewership, with an average of 9.6 million people tuning in for the 8 p.m. broadcast. This level of scrutiny and expectation adds to the excitement and pressure of her new role.
As she prepares for her debut, Hiller acknowledges the challenges that come with live news presentation. "There can be technical difficulties, unexpected interruptions, or even slip-ups in speech. It’s our job to manage those moments and convey the message clearly. That’s just human nature," she explained. However, she also expressed her greatest fear: laughter during a serious segment. "Once you start laughing, it can be hard to regain composure," she said with a smile.
Hiller will join a seasoned team of presenters that includes Jens Riewa, Susanne Daubner, Julia-Niharika Sen, Constantin Schreiber, and Thorsten Schröder. Together, they embody the trusted face of the "Tagesschau," delivering news to millions of viewers every evening.
Outside of her professional life, Hiller keeps her personal details relatively private. She is known to be a devoted mother of two daughters and resides with her family in Hamburg. Despite her public role, she maintains a balance between her career and family life.
As Germany anticipates Hiller's first appearance on the "Tagesschau," there is a palpable sense of excitement. Her commitment to journalistic integrity and her relatable approach to news delivery promise to resonate with viewers. With her rich background and passion for storytelling, Hiller is poised to make a significant impact on the program and continue the legacy of trustworthy journalism that the "Tagesschau" represents.
In conclusion, Romy Hiller's upcoming role as the new moderator of the "Tagesschau" signals a fresh chapter in the program's history. As she steps into this prominent position, viewers can expect a blend of professionalism and authenticity, qualities that have defined her career thus far.
