- Prior to the airing, her enthusiasm level was sky-high.
In the celebration period of RTL's jungle camp anniversary, viewers could observe the state of Hanka Rackwitz (55), who initially joined the show with high spirits and friendliness, gradually deteriorating over time. On the seventh day, the former TV real estate agent chose to withdraw from "I'm a Star - Showdown of Jungle Legends" voluntarily. Since the recording, a bit of time has passed before her departure was broadcast on August 22. The day following this broadcast, the jungle veteran shared her thoughts on various topics, including the show's authenticity and viewers' opinion on the jungle king or queen, in an interview with spot on news.
Has the jungle camp ordeal taken its toll on you, and have you managed to recover since then?
Hanka Rackwitz: I recovered quickly because I had no regrets about voluntarily leaving the camp. Of course, I wasn't completely satisfied due to its drawbacks. Nevertheless, it was the right decision. However, as the broadcast date neared, I grew anxious about the potential impact on my life that I had worked hard to build. Looking back, I had doubts about my decisions and actions and wondered if I really was the person I thought I was. And then, what happens when Germany throws stones at you following the broadcast?
Did you tune in to watch the past episodes leading up to your leaving the show?
Rackwitz: By blocking out the approaching broadcast date, I excitedly watched the episodes with a glass of prosecco in hand. It was odd, though: I kept hearing my name, found my voice strange... It felt surreal.
In your opinion, was the content shown truthful and accurate?
Rackwitz: The editing was outstanding, and the events were portrayed as they actually occurred. Of course, not everything could be shown, but the overall tone was depicted realistically. Initially, this reassured me because some formats manipulate their content. But as in a nature documentary about a leopard mother and her cubs, if they're depicted hunting, it seems impressive. However, the documentary could also depict an impala mother killed by the same leopard. It depends on the perspective, and that's also interesting in shows like jungle camp.
With the audience's opinion playing a crucial role in such shows, how did you feel about the pre-recorded legend season with no audience voting?
Rackwitz: This disappointed me since no behavior had consequences. I was no longer sure what was right or wrong. My sense of justice is very strong, and I reacted strongly in certain situations. If I had the "wise" Hanka from the outside intervene during those moments, things might have turned out differently.
Rackwitz: Elena's arrival helped restore some authenticity as everyone seemed to act like professionals once again. However, the partially staged stories about other formats, Dubai, Lion Moms, and such, or the manufactured arguments, I couldn't handle anymore. I made no secret of my frustration, and it was often suggested I leave. Eventually, it became too much, and I chose to halt the rollercoaster for my past and present self.
You already know who emerged victorious from the Legend-Junglecamp. Would you like to congratulate the jungle queen/king?
Rackwitz: I'm pleased with the winner, and I can confirm that fact. (laughs)
What's next, will you appear on any upcoming TV projects?
Rackwitz: Not at the moment. I need time to recuperate first. I hadn't anticipated the emotional impact it would have on me. However, I can reveal that I'm going to purchase a food truck and travel around to share some magical dust, uplifting vibes, and scrumptious food with anyone interested.
Have you experienced any backlash from the RTL broadcast on social media or other platforms?
Hanka Rackwitz: After the broadcast, I noticed increased activity on my RTL account's comment section, primarily from people expressing their opinions using the RTL hashtag ['#RTL']. Some messages were supportive, but others were harsh and critical, often involving the 'RTL' tag.
How has the RTL broadcast impacted your relationship with other celebrity contestants from the jungle camp?
Rackwitz: Like me, some contestants viewed the broadcast as an opportunity to shine and engage with their fans. However, others might have felt uncomfortable with the public scrutiny and exposure of their RTL jungle camp experience. Thus, our relationships have become more explicit and defined on social media platforms which support the ['RTL'] hashtag.
