Schnack-Jubiläum in Hamburg - Germany's iconic DAS! Red Sofa turns 35 with a star-studded anniversary special
One of Germany's longest-running talk shows, DAS! Red Sofa, will mark its 35th anniversary in 2026. Since its debut on January 2, 1991, the programme has become a weekday staple, drawing hundreds of thousands of viewers every evening at 6:45 p.m.
The show's enduring popularity rests on its trio of hosts: Bettina Tietjen, who joined almost at the start, Inka Schneider in 2003, and Hinnerk Baumgarten in 2006. Together, they have interviewed around 12,000 guests from fields as varied as acting, science, sports, music, and politics.
In 2025, DAS! Red Sofa achieved its highest ratings yet, securing an average market share of 14.4 percent across NDR's broadcast region. This success has set the stage for a milestone celebration.
A special episode titled 35 Years of DAS! – Take a Seat on the Red Sofa will air on February 7, 2026, at 8:15 p.m. The programme will look back on decades of conversations, memorable moments, and the show's impact on German television.
The anniversary episode will highlight the show's long-standing influence in German media. With a history of engaging interviews and consistent viewership, DAS! Red Sofa remains a key part of NDR's evening schedule. The special broadcast will offer fans a chance to revisit its most notable guests and discussions.
