In a notable alteration to its programming, RTL’s beloved dance show "Let's Dance" will take a one-week break on Friday, April 18, 2025, due to the observance of Good Friday, a day marked by a nationwide dancing ban in Germany. This prohibition, rooted in the country's recognition of silent holidays, prohibits live performances, including televised dance shows. As a result, RTL will not air a new live episode of "Let's Dance" on this day.
Instead, viewers can look forward to a special presentation titled "Let's Dance – Die 25 beliebtesten Stars aller Zeiten" ("Let's Dance – The 25 Most Popular Stars of All Time"). This retrospective will celebrate the most beloved contestants from the show’s 17 seasons, showcasing highlights from the series that has captivated audiences since its inception.
Since its return on February 21, 2025, the current season of "Let's Dance" has been a significant hit, achieving a market share of 22.0 percent among viewers aged 14 to 49 during its seventh live show. This success reflects the show's enduring popularity and the excitement surrounding its contestants, including prominent figures such as actress Simone Thomalla, who performed despite experiencing considerable pain during the previous episode.
The decision to pause the live show is not uncommon; every year, popular programs like "Let's Dance" and the satirical "heute-show" (ZDF) are affected by the regulations surrounding Good Friday. These laws restrict various forms of entertainment, including dancing, to ensure that the day is observed solemnly, as it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The specifics of these regulations can vary by state, with some regions enforcing stricter rules than others.
In Bavaria, for instance, the ban on dancing extends from Maundy Thursday through to Saturday, while in Berlin, the restrictions are less severe, allowing for dancing until 4:00 AM on Good Friday. Nevertheless, the overarching rule remains that no live performances can occur on the day.
Despite the absence of a live episode, RTL promises that the special will be a delightful alternative, featuring a compilation of the most memorable moments and contestants from the show's history, which has seen a total of 207 celebrities participate since its launch. This includes well-known personalities such as Jeanette Biedermann, selfiesandra, Marie Mouroum, and many others.
For the contestants currently competing in the 2025 season, the break provides an unexpected opportunity for additional practice. Contestants and their professional partners typically train rigorously, often dedicating up to nine hours a day perfecting their routines. The extra week off allows them to refine their performances further, which is crucial as they prepare for the upcoming episodes.
Regular episodes of "Let's Dance" will resume the following week, with the eighth show scheduled for April 25, 2025, at 20:15. The finale is anticipated to take place on May 23, 2025, promising an exciting conclusion to the season.
In recent discussions, the appropriateness of the restrictions on Good Friday has been called into question, particularly in light of declining church attendance and the increasing secularization of society in Germany. Critics argue that such regulations may no longer reflect the values of a modern, diverse population. Nonetheless, these laws remain in effect, affecting not only television programming but also nightlife and various recreational activities across the country.
As viewers anticipate the return of "Let's Dance" next week, the special airing on Good Friday serves as a reminder of the show's rich legacy and the joy it brings to audiences. Fans can expect to see their favorite stars from past seasons, celebrating the art of dance and the spirit of competition that has defined the series for nearly two decades.
In summary, while the absence of a live show on April 18 may disappoint some fans, RTL's special presentation promises to deliver nostalgia and entertainment, ensuring that the spirit of "Let's Dance" continues to shine through, even on a day of solemn observance.
