"Star Parade" presenter Rainer Holbe passes away
Rainer Holbe: A Pioneer in German Television Passes Away
Rainer Holbe, a German journalist, author, and television presenter, known for his work on the ZDF music show "Starparade" and his contributions to the development of popular music television programming, has passed away at the age of 85 in Frankfurt am Main.
Holbe's career on German television spanned over four decades, during which he became a recognizable figure on ZDF, one of Germany's main public-service broadcasters. His work helped shape the landscape of television in Germany during his active years.
Holbe's most notable achievement was hosting the ZDF series "Starparade," a music show that aired from 1968 to 1980. This series was one of the biggest rating hits of the Second German Television during its airtime, featuring stars like Barry Manilow, Abba, Neil Diamond, T.Rex, and Frank Sinatra. Bandleader James Last made his first-ever television appearance in the first "Starparade" and accompanied guests with his orchestra until the last episode.
In addition to "Starparade," Holbe hosted several other successful shows. He launched the format of breakfast television on RTL in 1987 and presented "Fantastic Phenomena" at Sat.1. He also hosted the series "Incredible Stories" at RTL.
Holbe's work extended beyond music and entertainment. He had a fascination for paranormal events, investigating Marian apparitions and UFOs in his television shows. He also received the Grimme Prize as a talk show host for his RTL talk show "Die Woche," which won the prestigious award.
Holbe reported live from Berlin on the morning of November 10, 1989, after the fall of the Berlin Wall, marking a significant moment in German history. His daughter announced his passing to the German Press Agency.
Holbe was a founding father at TV station RTL (previously RTLplus) in the 1980s, and his work "Cocreators - The Secret Powers of Animals and Plants" advocates for a new form of partnership between all living beings on the planet.
Holbe's initial broadcast of the ZDF series "Starparade" was in black and white, reflecting the era in which it aired. The series ended its run in 1980, but Holbe's influence on German television continues to be felt.
Holbe's passing marks the end of an era in German television, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, entertainment, and a passion for the extraordinary.
Holbe's most notable achievement, the ZDF series "Starparade," offered entertainment through featuring prominent musicians such as Barry Manilow, Abba, Neil Diamond, T.Rex, and Frank Sinatra.
Amidst his career, Holbe extended his work beyond music and entertainment, delving into the paranormal with television shows investigating Marian apparitions and UFOs.
