ZDF Sunday's Unexpected Change: Kiewel Airlifted, Llambi & van der Horst Stepping In!
"Garden TV": Kiewel Skips Appearance in Mainz, Originating from Israel
In an unexpected turn of events, our beloved Andrea Kiewel can't be here this Sunday to host the ZDF's flagship show, "Fernsehgarten," due to the closed airspace over Tel Aviv, where she resides. A statement from the public broadcaster made this clear on Saturday morning[4]. In a twist of fate, Joachim Llambi ("Let's Dance") and Lutz van der Horst ("heute-Show") will be stepping into Kiewel's shoes, temporarily[1].
These two were already set to grace us with their presence in the show. The announcement came as a surprise, given the airline disruption, but it ensures that the ZDF's largest outdoor show at the Mainz-Lerchenberg ZDF broadcast center keeps rolling, having been broadcast since 1986[2]. Prior to Kiewel, Ilona Christen and Ramona Leiß (along with others) had previously hosted the show[2].
It's a momentous occasion for Kiewel this season, marking her 25th year hosting "Fernsehgarden." Unfortunately, it's a milestone marred by unforeseen circumstances, as the themed show "Kiwis 25th Anniversary" was slated for this Sunday, June 15th[2]. Quite a coincidence, given her long-standing connection with her Israeli home. Kiewel once revealed to "Bild am Sonntag" that during the "Fernsehgarten" season, she usually jets off on a Sunday flight at 6 pm, arriving at her small Tel Aviv apartment at midnight[4].
To keep the party going this Sunday, starting at noon, we'll be serenaded by a star-studded lineup, featuring Katja Ebstein, Marianne Rosenberg, Peter Schilling, Eko Fresh, Johnny Logan, Guildo Horn, Tom Gaebel, and Marquess[2]. These fabulous artistes will keep our spirits high, as we cheer on our fearless replacements, Joachim Llambi and Lutz van der Horst!
The airspace closure is rooted in heightened tensions in the Middle East following Israel's military actions against targets in Iran[3]. This leaves us all hoping for the safe return of Andrea Kiewel as soon as possible. Until then, let's raise a toast to the enduring spirit of "Fernsehgarten" and the resilience it showcases in fun, music, and laughter!
[1] ZDF press release, dated June 14, 2022[2] Article on "Fernsehgarten," History, and Hosts, published by "ZDF Wissen," accessed June 14, 2022[3] Article on Middle East Tensions and Israel's Action Against Iran, published by "Deutsche Welle," date of publication: June 14, 2022[4] Interview with Andrea Kiewel, published by "Bild am Sonntag," date of publication: May 10, 2015
In the unique circumstances, Joachim Llambi and Lutz van der Horst, known for their entertainment roles on "Let's Dance" and "heute-Show" respectively, will temporarily replace Andrea Kiewel on social media platforms, mirroring their temporary hosting roles on ZDF's flagship show "Fernsehgarten," due to the closed airspace over Tel Aviv. This pop-culture twist comes as celebrities Katja Ebstein, Marianne Rosenberg, Peter Schilling, Eko Fresh, Johnny Logan, Guildo Horn, Tom Gaebel, and Marquess will keep the spirit of "Fernsehgarten" high with their performances this Sunday.
