Starparade's Moderator, Rainer Holbe, Passes Away - "Rainer Holbe, the presenter of 'Star Parade', has passed away"
Rainer Holbe, a renowned figure in German television, passed away on August 15, 2023, at the age of 85. Known for his charismatic hosting and impactful television shows, Holbe left an indelible mark on the German broadcasting industry.
A Career in Television
Holbe began his career in television with the popular music show "Starparade" on ZDF. This show, which initially aired in black and white from 1968 to 1980, saw Holbe collaborate with some of the biggest names in the music industry. Notable performers on "Starparade" included Barry Manilow, Abba, Neil Diamond, T.Rex, and Frank Sinatra. Bandleader James Last made his first television appearance with his own orchestra in the first episode of "Starparade" and accompanied almost all guests until the last episode.
In addition to "Starparade", Holbe played a pivotal role in the establishment of private television in Germany, setting up RTL and launching the new breakfast television format in 1987. He was also associated with other television shows, such as "the football show" on RTL.
Paranormal Interests
Though specific details about his paranormal interests are not widely documented, Holbe's diverse career suggests a broad range of interests beyond traditional television hosting. He hosted the series "Incredible Stories" at RTL, where he sought scientific explanations for seemingly paranormal events, ranging from Marian apparitions to UFOs. He also presented "Fantastic Phenomena" at Sat.1.
Legacy
Holbe was one of the founding fathers of the first morning show in Germany, which started in 1987 at TV station RTL (later RTLplus). For many years, he was the face of RTL. On November 9, 1989, "Die Woche" was the first television station to report live from Berlin the morning after the Berlin Wall fell. His RTL talk show "Die Woche" also received the prestigious Grimme Award.
Holbe's legacy as a television icon and his contributions to German broadcasting are celebrated by millions of viewers who remember him for his charismatic hosting and impactful television shows. In addition to his work in television, Holbe was also an author, writing books such as "Creations - The Secret Powers of Animals and Plants", which advocates for a new form of partnership between all living beings on the planet.
Rainer Holbe will be sorely missed by his fans and the German television industry. His impact on the industry and his charisma will continue to be felt for years to come.
The German television industry mourns the loss of Rainer Holbe, a celebrated figure who not only left his mark on television but also ventured into book authorship with titles such as "Creations - The Secret Powers of Animals and Plants." In contrast to the entertainments world dominated by celebrities, Holbe's initiatives extended beyond traditional television hosting, delving into the realm of the paranormal through shows like "Incredible Stories" and "Fantastic Phenomena." Despite his demise, Holbe's legacy continues to resonate in the hearts of millions as an enduring icon of the German broadcasting industry.
