"Löwenzahn" Moderator is unforgotten - How Peter Lustig's Löwenzahn became Germany's timeless children's treasure
Peter Lustig became a household name in Germany through his beloved children's show Löwenzahn. For over two decades, he hosted the programme, leaving a lasting mark on generations of viewers. His death in 2016 did little to dim his cultural legacy—even years later, he remains a cherished figure.
Lustig took over Löwenzahn in 1981, playing a quirky handyman who lived in a caravan. His look—round glasses, blue overalls, and a builder's wagon—became instantly recognisable. Each episode ended with his famous line: 'Turn it off!'—a playful nudge for children to stop watching and go outside.
He wrote every script himself, blending education with gentle humour. Off-screen, his persona was no act, according to his son, Pavi Momme. Even his on-screen neighbour, Paschulke, was played by Helmut Krauss, who lived next door in real life.
In 2002, Bild am Sonntag falsely accused Lustig of disliking children, a claim he strongly denied. Despite the controversy, his reputation endured. Five years later, he received the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany for his contributions to children's television.
Lustig married three times and had children from each marriage. His personal life, like his career, was marked by a mix of creativity and complexity.
Lustig's influence stretched far beyond his 24 years on Löwenzahn. His show continues to air in reruns, and his character remains a symbol of curiosity and kindness. Though he passed away in 2016, his work still shapes how many Germans remember their childhood.
