Michael Wendler and his wife Laura Müller were set to star in their own documentary soap on RTL Zwei, however, the announcement was met with heavy criticism due to Wendler’s repeated spread of conspiracy theories throughout the corona pandemic. RTL Zwei initially defended the decision to produce the new format, stating that they believed the singer wanted a new start with his young family and was not an extremist. However, just days after the announcement, the broadcaster announced that they had decided to cancel the project due to the intense backlash from viewers.
In a press release on March 15, RTL Zwei stated that they had taken the reactions from their audience seriously and apologized if they had offended anyone. The broadcaster explained that they stand for “openness to the world and tolerance” and have “always distanced themselves from extremism of all kinds.” As a result, they have decided not to pursue the project with Michael Wendler, despite the support from the producers. This means that the end of the documentary series is official before the first episode has even been broadcast.
Michael Wendler himself made a statement the day before defending his new TV format, expressing his dismay at the reactions and surprise at the intensity of the criticism. He claimed that he is neither a racist nor an anti-Semite and condemns every form of racism and anti-Semitism. He regrets many of his past statements and asked for a chance for viewers to form their own opinions.
The cancellation of the show has likely come as a surprise to the couple, as they have not yet commented on the decision. However, the intense backlash from viewers has resulted in the broadcaster deciding to distance themselves from the controversy and reaffirm their values of tolerance and openness.
