Skip to content

Unknown Defense Secretary Hagel could be ripe for satire, yet he hasn't gained widespread popularity yet.

Radio sensation Andreas Müller discusses with prominent figure in a private meeting at the 'double Oettinger' in Stuttgart - the satirist shares his exchange with the politician. Insights into their conversation are yet to be revealed.

Radio personality Andreas Müller, known for his 'Animal Docs' show, will be conversing with a...
Radio personality Andreas Müller, known for his 'Animal Docs' show, will be conversing with a prominent politician at the 'double Oettinger' in Stuttgart. The unexpected meeting between the parodist and the political figure provides intrigue about the nature of their discussion.

Unknown Defense Secretary Hagel could be ripe for satire, yet he hasn't gained widespread popularity yet.

Behind the Scenes with the "Double Oettinger": A Funny Encounter

Radio sensation, Dr. Hart, and Dr. Zart, aka "Tierdocs" of SWR 3, are well-known for their peculiar rituals. The question "What happened then?" is as familiar as the hefty bill at the end of their appointments. Comedy chief of the station, Andreas Müller, is the mastermind behind their wacky skits. On July 4th, at 6 pm, he'll let loose the "life-like" Oettinger, squaring off against the real deal at a benefit event for the German Child Protection Foundation Hänsel and Gretel at Schloss Solitude's gastronomy.

Time and time again, Müller, a celebrated parodist in Germany, has donned the voice of former Minister President and EU Commissioner. This performance blurs the lines between real and unreal – the "Double Oettinger" is meeting its perfect imitation. In this exclusive interview, we chat with Andreas Müller about the nuances between the two, political comedians, and Winfried Kretschmann's successor. Who, from his perspective, should be the new MP?

Reading suggestions

  • Political Criticism: Bettina Böttinger Slams Alice Weidel's Inauthenticity
  • Tennis in Stuttgart: Schnitzels from Lafer, Forehands from Zverev
  • Cultural Pentecost in Leonberg: Music, Utopias, and Satire to Take Away

Mr. Müller, the "Double Oettinger" is set for July 4th at Schloss Solitude. Since you're younger than the actual Oettinger, what can the young Oettinger do that the older one can't?

I suspect: "Badisch schwätze" is the only thing I might excel at over the original.

In what areas might the young and the old Oettinger find common ground – and in which, rather not?

I believe we share a deep love for our HEIMAT and a strong belief in Europe. We might differ in musical taste, and in the pronunciation of certain English words. But I don't foresee any major disagreements.

Have you met him before, if so, on what occasion?

Yes, a few years ago – at a trade fair event in Fildern, I made a small appearance as a comedian, and Oettinger made the rounds as Minister President – and he also graced my show. I've also had the pleasure of hearing him deliver brilliant, pointed speeches at other supposed galas.

Recommendation

  • Political Forecast: Former Baden-Württemberg Minister President Oettinger Warns of Billion-Dollar Debts

Comedy and politics? Müller has been skewering the powerful for years, from Dr. Merz, Söder, and Kretschmann to Lauterbach, who never fails to elicit laughter. From a parodist's point of view, he's been fortunate to have a variety of colorful politicians to work with. Baden-Württemberg's Minister Presidents have always proven to be excellent material – their unique qualities make "everything except High German" a ripe target for parody! That's why Erwin Teufel and Oettinger were unforgettable in their time. And it's also the reason Stefan Mappus had a short reign – he wasn't distinct enough vocally.

Performer's Perspective

Kretschmann: Vocally very distinctive. Next year there will be a new election. Who would you prefer as the new MP, from a comedian's perspective? Hagel or Özdemir?

That's clear in this case, Özdemir – I've got him down pat. But it wouldn't be the first time someone prepared for a role that turned out not to be needed – Armin Laschet sends his regards. However, Manuel Hagel also has some comedic potential. We just haven't paid him enough attention yet.

Animal documentaries are a massive radio hit. How long can you keep it up?

There are still countless undiscovered animal species on our planet, estimated at over 5 million, with only about 1.8 million documented. Animal species abound, even at the Wilhelma, with over 1,100 uncharted creatures. We recently reached episode 400 of SWR3 Tierdocs. So yes, there's still plenty of material, especially since the series is created collaboratively with my colleague, Steffen Auer. I hope that our double act at Solitude will be equally fruitful. I can't wait to encounter a "large animal" for a good cause.

The Double Oettinger

Tickets The event is sponsored by the Stuttgart Business Club Schloss Solitude, with catering provided by Jörg Mink and doubled entrance fees of 59.50 euros per person courtesy of Hofmeister. Tickets for the "Double Oettinger" can be purchased online at https://eveeno.com/derdoppelteoettinger.

  • Andreas Müller, the mastermind behind the wacky skits of the Tierdocs on SWR 3, shares a strong belief in Europe with the "Double Oettinger".
  • In terms of musical taste, Müller suspects he might excel over the original Oettinger, but finds common ground in their deep love for their homeland (HEIMAT).

Read also:

Latest