"Michael Kessler advocates for the validity of reality TV in an initial discussion"
Public broadcasting network ARD in Germany is stepping into the realm of reality TV with its new show, "Werewolves - The Game of Cunning and Deception." This move is aimed at attracting a broader audience and offering diverse content, as the average age of ARD viewers is about 64 years old.
Hosted by Michael Kessler, the show is a modern genre that sets itself apart from typical reality TV formats. Unlike dating or survival shows, "Werewolves" is a strategic game where participants need to figure out who among them is a "werewolf." The focus on deception and strategy can engage viewers intellectually, encouraging them to think about the strategies and alliances formed during the game.
ARD has secured qualified individuals from psychologists to poker players for the required deception maneuvers. The 13 players in the show aim to unmask the three werewolves among them before they can kill the others.
Michael Kessler considers this move by ARD to be a good one, as it allows them to compete in the reality TV genre. He notes that public broadcasters are already providers of thrillers, crime, and family entertainment. The show starts on September 25 in the ARD media library and on October 2 in linear television at 10:50 PM.
The new reality show is based on the board game "The Werewolves of Duskwood." Until now, such reality TV formats have been exclusive to private television channels in Germany. Kessler believes this innovation of ARD, with its focus on quality and the use of qualified individuals, will set their version of "Werewolves" apart from others.
By airing "Werewolves - The Game of Cunning and Deception," ARD is introducing reality TV to counter the high demand for such content. This move is seen as a way to reach a younger audience, as the network strives to remain relevant in a competitive media landscape.
The strategic game show "Werewolves - The Game of Cunning and Deception," hosted by Michael Kessler, offers a fresh take on the realm of entertainment, departing from traditional reality TV formats such as dating or survival shows. Public broadcasters like ARD, providers of various forms of entertainment including thrillers, crime, and family shows, are now competing in the reality TV genre with this innovative show.
