RTLZWEI faces unexpected backlash over new docu-soap about Michael Wendler and his wife Laura Müller. The broadcaster had planned a six-episode series providing viewers with a glimpse into the couple’s private life in Florida. However, after massive criticism on social media and a protest by many RTLZWEI celebrities, the production of the show has been cancelled. The broadcaster apologized for hurting fans’ feelings and said it would not compromise on extremism in any form. The couple was expected to be followed through their pregnancy journey, including the birth of their first child together.
The vehemence of the reaction took the broadcaster by surprise, and even the shareholder RTL refused to go ahead with the show. Carmen Geiss, a celebrity linked to RTL, threatened to quit the network. The couple’s previous controversial statements and endorsements of crisis products raised concerns. Michael Wendler had made controversial statements in the past, including one in 2021 about the Holocaust. He sought to distance himself from such statements and make a fresh start through the cancelled series but will not have the opportunity to do so.
In the end, the broadcaster listened to all voices against the production, realizing it did not want to give extremists a platform through the show. Michael Wendler expressed dismay at the outrage on social media and denied being racist or anti-Semitic. However, his apology did not convince many. Fans are now relieved that RTLZWEI chose to cancel the show.
