As the world remembers the legacy of Hans Rosenthal, a beloved German entertainer who would have turned 100 on April 2, 2025, ZDF is set to honor his remarkable life with a biopic titled "Rosenthal." Scheduled to air on April 7, this film explores the complexities of Rosenthal's existence, particularly focusing on a pivotal moment in his career and personal history.
Florian Lukas, who takes on the role of Rosenthal, expressed his initial doubts about portraying such an iconic figure. "It felt too big for me, as everyone associates something with Rosenthal—not just ZDF viewers," Lukas shared with BILD. Rosenthal, who passed away in 1987 at the age of 61, hosted the popular game show "Dalli Dalli" for 15 years, becoming a household name in Germany.
Rosenthal's life was marked by tragedy and resilience. He survived the Holocaust by hiding in a Berlin garden shed, an experience that left an indelible mark on his life. Tragically, his ten-year-old brother was deported and murdered by the Nazis. This harrowing past is juxtaposed with his public persona as a cheerful entertainer, known for his catchphrase "Das war spitze!" and his signature jump during shows.
The biopic delves into a particularly challenging day for Rosenthal—November 9, 1978. On this date, he was scheduled to host the 75th episode of "Dalli Dalli," coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the Reichspogromnacht, a significant event in Jewish history. Rosenthal had hoped to attend a memorial service alongside Chancellor Helmut Schmidt but was met with resistance from ZDF, which insisted on airing the show. This conflict left Rosenthal feeling torn between his responsibilities as an entertainer and his identity as a Jewish man.
In the film, viewers will witness Rosenthal's internal struggle as he grapples with the weight of his past while preparing for the live broadcast. "How can I entertain millions of Germans on such a significant day?" he questions. Despite his fame, the film reveals that Rosenthal had kept his Jewish heritage largely in the background, focusing instead on spreading joy through entertainment.
Rosenthal's children, Birgit Hofmann and Gert Rosenthal, played a crucial role in the film's development, sharing insights about their father's life and their family's experiences. Birgit noted, "This is all fiction. For example, at that time, I did not have such a big child. My brother, his girlfriend, and I were written into this scene to convey certain messages." Their involvement ensured that the film accurately represented Rosenthal's legacy.
The documentary "Hans Rosenthal – Zwei Leben in Deutschland," airing at 21:45 on the same night, complements the biopic by providing a deeper exploration of Rosenthal's life, featuring interviews with family members, colleagues, and historians. This documentary aims to shed light on Rosenthal's experiences as a Holocaust survivor and his subsequent rise to fame in the entertainment industry.
Rosenthal's impact on German television cannot be overstated. As ZDF program director Nadine Bilke stated, "Hans Rosenthal was one of the most influential personalities in German television, especially for ZDF. He brought fresh air into entertainment shows and significantly shaped the format of quiz and game shows." His ability to connect with audiences while navigating his personal history remains a testament to his character.
Filming for "Rosenthal" took place from August 5 to September 6, 2024, across various locations in Bavaria, Berlin, and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Lukas, who is known for his role in "Weissensee," underwent a remarkable transformation to embody Rosenthal, with extensive work by makeup artists to replicate the iconic look of the entertainer.
As the broadcast date approaches, anticipation is building. The film will be available for streaming on ZDF's media library from March 22, allowing viewers to engage with Rosenthal's story at their convenience. This dual presentation of a biopic and documentary allows for a comprehensive understanding of a man who was both a source of joy and a survivor of unimaginable hardship.
Rosenthal's legacy continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of resilience and the importance of confronting one's past. His life story is not just about entertainment; it is about survival, identity, and the courage to embrace one's heritage. As audiences prepare to celebrate the centenary of Hans Rosenthal's birth, they are invited to reflect on the complexities of his journey and the lasting impact he has left on German culture.
The upcoming ZDF programming dedicated to Hans Rosenthal serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of remembering our history and honoring those who have shaped our lives through their contributions.
