As Germany prepares to commemorate the life of famed quiz master Hans Rosenthal, the ZDF network is set to release a film titled Rosenthal, marking what would have been the entertainer's 100th birthday on April 2, 2025. The film, which will be available for streaming starting March 22 and airs April 7 as the 'TV film of the week,' seeks to honor Rosenthal's legacy in a significant way.
Hans Rosenthal, known primarily for his brilliant hosting on the game show Dalli Dalli, was not just a beloved television figure; he was also a Holocaust survivor, whose personal history adds another layer of complexity to his remarkable story. Rosenthal was deeply connected to his Jewish identity, often balancing his public persona with the gravity of his past, particularly as the anniversary of Kristallnacht loomed during his career.
The intricacies of Rosenthal's character are highlighted in the film, featuring actor Florian Lukas, who captures the essence of Rosenthal with impressive accuracy. "Zunächst hatte ich Angst, jemanden zu spielen, dessen Eigenheiten unglaublich viele Leute noch kennen..." Lukas remarked in a ZDF interview, expressing his initial concerns about portraying such a well-known figure. His performance dives into not just Rosenthal's charm and charisma but also the humanity behind the entertainer, making the film a journey through triumph over adversity.
One notable aspect of Rosenthal's life was his refusal to accept preferential treatment. He was a Kassenpatient rather than privately insured, emphasizing his belief that he should be treated just like anyone else. This down-to-earth nature made him relatable to millions of viewers, contributing to his widespread popularity.
In the film, key events from autumn 1977 and November 9, 1978, are recounted, which is a poignant reminder of the date's significance in history, marking the 40th anniversary of Kristallnacht. The film captures Rosenthal's struggles and efforts to ensure that the celebration of his show's anniversary did not overshadow the solemn remembrance of the pogrom night. His son, Gert Rosenthal, shared insights into his father's motivations during these times: "Ich glaube, dass alle mit ihm einen Menschen verbinden, der Brücken geschlagen hat," he said in an interview, reflecting on Rosenthal's desire to connect and engage with all facets of society.
Rosenthal's commitment to his family extended beyond his professional career. He was protective of his children, deliberately shielding them from the harsher realities of his past during their upbringing. Birgit Hofmann, his daughter, recalls her father as someone who didn't make a big deal about his Jewish background, stating, "Er hat auch beruflich nie irgendwie ein großes Geheimnis draus gemacht, aber es wurde nicht an die große Glocke gehängt." This further illustrates Rosenthal's complex relationship with his identity and public persona.
The profound nature of his experiences during the Holocaust undoubtedly informed his professional life. After the war, Rosenthal worked for Berliner Rundfunk and then moved to RIAS, where he faced prejudice, sometimes branded as a "Hitlerjunge" in his early days. Nevertheless, his respect for the Americans would later influence his career trajectory and public view. Nadine Bilke, a ZDF Program Director, noted, "Hans Rosenthal war eine der prägendsten Persönlichkeiten des deutschen Fernsehens..." He truly changed the landscape of quiz show entertainment in Germany.
As the film aims to preserve the memory of Rosenthal, it intertwines footage and narrative that highlight not just his accomplishments but also the legacy he leaves behind through the Hans-Rosenthal-Stiftung, which continues to support families in need. This ongoing involvement underscores his lasting philosophy: "Man muss Menschen mögen."
The film Rosenthal promises to be both a tribute and an exploration of a complex individual who thrived despite monumental challenges. His life story, infused with a commitment to entertainment and a recognition of the past, serves as an inspiring legacy for future generations. With its upcoming release, audiences will not only be entertained but will also be reminded of the intricate tapestry of history that has shaped contemporary Germany.
