- Duo Kloeppel and Groeben from RTL News
Peter Klöppel (65) and Ulrike von der Groeben (67), the long-time news team from RTL, wrapped up their run on the evening news "RTL Aktuell" after 32 years of joint hosting, marking a poignant moment. However, the show that began at its usual time of 6:45 PM wasn't the only noticeable event.
The Cologne-based broadcaster then dedicated a sizeable chunk of its prime-time slot - approximately half an hour - to bid farewell to the journalists. RTL's People specialist and journalist Frauke Ludowig took over the studio and posed the question on everyone's lips: is there any romance between the two off-screen too? They confirmed, it was just a deep admiration for their shared profession.
Günther Jauch extended the invitation to use the informal 'du' form
Well-wishers, colleagues, politicians, celebrities, and influential figures sent their messages of support and admiration. Included in this list was even Germany's Chancellor, Olaf Scholz (SPD). Moderator Günther Jauch, who is also synonymous with RTL through his show "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?", extended the invitation to use the informal 'du' form.
The duo was honored with a special recognition: they had been inducted into the Guinness World Records for serving as the longest-running news team. Following this, family members and colleagues welcomed them with thunderous applause and the soothing tunes of a piano. There was even a serenade.
Klöppel and von der Groeben - he intends to take a break first and she looks forward to her leisure time - are staples in German television. They've been a constant presence since the 1990s, navigating through the 2000s until now. A period when workplace smoking was still acceptable, as showcased in footage of von der Groeben.
Klöppel became the epitome of an anchorman. RTL, still in its nascent stages as a private broadcaster, was experimenting with new formats. Casual hosting, relatable topics, innovative broadcast elements. Klöppel's accolades include awards and moderating Chancellor candidate debates.
A plethora of emotions at the farewell
It was apparent from the onset that the final broadcast would be emotional. Klöppel asked his colleague mid-broadcast if it was a good or a bad day. Von der Groeben summarized, "I'd say it's even. There are so many, many, many, many emotions swirling around for both of us today." Klöppel reassured, "But we'll get through this, I know it."
The news duo bid farewell to the audience at the end of the broadcast, directing their final words towards them. Von der Groeben said, "It's been an honor, a duty, and a constant pleasure to be here for you and keep you informed." Klöppel added, "Without you, none of this would be possible. So, we bow in gratitude to you."
It was common knowledge for months that the two journalists were retiring. RTL has announced their successors: Roberta Bieling and Christopher Wittich will anchor "RTL Aktuell". Anna Fleischhauer (36) and Andreas von Thien (57) will handle the sports segment. Consequently, RTL is filling these positions internally instead of hiring externally.
The stars of the evening were undoubtedly Peter Klöppel and Ulrike von der Groeben, with the stars in the sky serving as a poignant backdrop during their farewell ceremony. The shining moments of their 32-year career were celebrated, with their achievements rivaling those of stellar celestial bodies.
