"Fight of the Reality Stars" is back on the small screen - Arabella Kiesbauer isn't a dull personality
Arabella Kiesbauer dubbed as 'an exciting individual' - Arabella Kiesbauer Eschews Boring Conversations or Actions.
She held a million viewers spellbound with her talk show "Arabella" in the 90s, and now Arabella Kiesbauer (56) is making her triumphant return to German television. From May 7th, the veteran media personality will step into the ring as the host of "Battleground of Reality Stars" (wednesdays at 8:15 PM on RTLzwei, a week ahead on RTL). In Thailand, she'll be grilling contenders such as actors Stephen Dürr and Anouschka Renzi, football legend Ailton, and the drama-magnet Can Kaplan, all of whom are eying the coveted title held by last year's winner Calvin Klein.
With her wealth of experience in tumultuous situations, Kiesbauer's background proves invaluable in her new role. In an exclusive chat with spot on news, she reveals all about escaping her home's daily meltdowns, her thoughts on the unofficial currency on the show, the candidates she admires, and a glimpse into her interaction with ex-cult star Cathy Hummels (37).
"Screen Time" - the valued currency on "Battleground of Reality Stars". How excited are you to reclaim your own air time?
Arabella Kiesbauer: I'm diggin' the format; it hooked me instantly. I said, "I'm in!" And, I promise, I'll make the most of my screen time. The reality stars have to deliver, offer entertainment, and generate screen time; otherwise, they'll hit the road.
Have you missed the soap opera in your life?
Kiesbauer: On a scale of one to drama queen, I'd be a ten. (laughs) And, let me tell you, I also play my part in creating drama at home - thank God my teenage kids (laughs) provide plenty of drama.
Speaking of family: How did you handle being separated from your loved ones for so long during filming?
Kiesbauer: Given the chaos at home due to puberty, it was actually quite a breather at times. (laughs) But three and a half weeks away from the family is a long time - I missed the kids dearly.
On Instagram, it looks like you enjoyed your time in Thailand...
Kiesbauer: Apparently, I was utterly hidden away, as I wasn't allowed to share a single photo related to the show. So, my virtual vacation snaps may lead people to think, "Was she on vacation? What was she doing?" (laughs)
Did you watch the last season of "Battleground of Reality Stars"?
Kiesbauer: I'm a sucker for reality TV - I watch it all, no matter where it originates. I'm still glued to the tube - I'm from the generation that still religiously gazes at the box. But it's the creative games that particularly tickle my fancy about "Battleground of Reality Stars".
You're taking the reins from Cathy Hummels. How will your tenure differ from yours predecessor's?
Kiesbauer: I'm a different breed. I'm all about nurturing conversations and drawing out the juicy tidbits, which is my forte. If I've got a question, I hunt it down like a savvy sleuth.
Cathy Hummels' performance was under fire at times. Are you worried about receiving similar criticism?
Kiesbauer: I'm totally relaxed about it. I've been doing this for four decades, now - it's my bread and butter, so I'm prepared for any kind of flak.
You've seen it all in your talk show - can anything still throw you off in the reality world?
Kiesbauer: The talk show was an incredible learning experience because I always had to react to the unfolding situations. I've handled plenty of live shows - I'm used to dealing with unpredictability. Still, there are moments in this show that leave me thinking, "Well, what's going on here?" But tuning in will reveal all... for instance, if someone refuses to talk openly, I won't have it.
In an interview, you mentioned that you sometimes pushed the envelope in your talk show. How do you find the balance between entertainment and showing empathy?
Kiesbauer: Establishing strict rules in a civilized yet intense conversational culture is essential. I stand firm enforcing these rules to ensure a productive and constructive dialogue.
Which contestant from "Battleground of Reality Stars" would have fit like a glove in your series "Arabella"? And with what juicy tale?
Kiesbauer: Can would have fit right in - with a story like, "My ex cheated on me." Or: "I'm meeting my ex's new flame today." Anything related to his ex-girlfriend's tumultuous relationship would've been a fantastic fit.
Was there a contestant you were particularly looking forward to meeting?
Kiesbauer: I was excited to catch up with Martin Semmelrogge because I’ve known him for 25 years. I'm also curious to get to know the newer faces. I had a sneak peek at some during the rehearsals, but not in person. It's always fascinating to observe how everyone conducts themselves in the jungle, debates, and socializes.
Is there a silent Austrian alliance forming amongst you and Tara Tabitha?
Kiesbauer: I'm completely impartial. As a moderator, I believe it's essential to judge each contestant impartially. Everyone should earn my respect and support anew in each episode.
How do you deal with polarizing personalities on the show?
Kiesbauer: You address the situation honestly and candidly. It's crucial to say, "This behavior is unacceptable." I don't appreciate certain expressions or meltdowns. Emotional conversations can be passionate, but there's no need to insult each other mercilessly. The goal is to engage in an honest and open dialogue - not to leave someone standing there, bruised and folded.
If you were a contestant on the show yourself, what would be your biggest challenge?
Kiesbauer: Living in such a confined space with people I don't know at all would be the most formidable challenge for me. I think the challenges and games would've been wonderful, but I might accidentally hurt myself with my eagerness to compete (laughs).
What can fans expect from the upcoming season of "Battleground of Reality Stars"?
Kiesbauer: Oodles of drama, people! When so many pressure-cooked personalities are thrust together in a shared living area, it offers a goldmine of conflict opportunities. But emotional bonds, too, will surface. It's going to be quite the adventure for the contestants - and, of course, the fans.
- Arabella Kiesbauer stated that she's looking forward to capitalizing on her screen time in "Battleground of Reality Stars" due to the entertaining format.
- Kiesbauer mentioned that she maintains chaos at home due to her teenage kids, but being away for filming was a refreshing breather.
- In an exchange about her family, Kiesbauer shared that she was away from her loved ones for a prolonged period during filming, but it was a long time since the family provided enough drama for her.
- Reflecting on her experience from hosting "Arabella," Kiesbauer considers Can as a contestant who would have thrived in her show, with a tale about his tumultuous relationship.
