Otto Waalkes: comedian and actor. - Ottifanten now offer guided city tours.
Hamburg has more to offer: Starting now, the "Ottifanten-Bus" will take tourists and fans of comedian and musician Otto Waalkes (75) on sightseeing tours through the German city. On June 6th, the red double-decker bus was officially introduced by Waalkes himself at the landing bridges. Born in East Frisia, Waalkes is extremely proud of his Ottifanten.
Distributing Ottifanten Keychains and Hugging Ottifants
For the free maiden voyage of the Ottifanten-Bus, the 75-year-old couldn't resist driving the bus himself. Before climbing aboard, though, Waalkes gave away plush Ottifanten keychains to the guests.
A video on Instagram shows Hamburg's newest attraction from all angles: The bus features multiple Ottifanten motifs, including a yellow raincoat-wearing Ottifant, two kissing Ottifants, and a rear view of a giant Ottifant, which is guaranteed to put a smile on many faces.
Waalkes mentions how "proud" he is that his trademark is now "so visible" in Hamburg.
Ottifanten phenomenon since 1973
The Wahl-Hamburger's Ottifanten, drawn in a comic style, first appeared on a record cover in 1973 and became a phenomenon over time. In the 1993 animated series "Otto's Ottifanten," the Emden-born musician and comedian provided the voice for the little elephant Baby Bruno.
The Ottifanten also feature prominently in Waalkes' stage shows and countless merchandising items. Waalkes' hometown of Emden even dedicated a statue to the Ottifanten.
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During the maiden voyage, Otto Waalkes, the 75-year-old comedian and musician, couldn't resist driving the new Ottifanten-Bus through Hamburg's streets. As a token of appreciation, he handed out plush Ottifanten keychains to the excited guests, further celebrating the comedian's connection to the city and his famous 'Ottifanten' characters, which have been a beloved part of Hamburg's culture since their first appearance on a record cover in 1973.
