- The gathering of the ancient lion nation, how did it transpire?
Celebrating 10 years of "The Lion's Den" on VOX and RTL+, starting September 2nd, original lions Frank Thelen (48) and Jochen Schweizer (67) are making a Comeback. Schweizer's departure in 2016 caused a buzz in the media, an insider from the production describing it as an "ego problem" for the expertise veteran. "Their bond with the other four lions in the final weeks was strained," announced further reports.
Carsten Maschmeyer Embraces the Nostalgia
Eight years later, tensions seemingly resolved? "Sitting with them again in that old setup was a bit nostalgic, yet it had its unique dynamics," shares Carsten Maschmeyer (65) with spot on news. He, however, can't speak for others, but he eagerly awaited the reunion. "Working with them was a blast." Maschmeyer joined the show in 2016, following Thelen's exit.
Thelen eventually left the show in 2019. "I bump into him at events occasionally," Maschmeyer elaborates. His last encounter with Schweizer was at Adele's concert in Munich. Would he welcome a long-term return of his former colleagues? "Both bring extensive entrepreneurial experience and investment know-how – but the current lion's lineup has that too. Ultimately, the decision lies with the production and the broadcaster," Maschmeyer replies diplomatically.
Judith Williams is Back in Action
On the flip side, Judith Williams (52) resumes her role in the pack after a year off. "Judith is an accomplished teleshopping professional, with a committed focus on beauty products. She's brilliant in her field. It's lovely that she missed the den. I'm thrilled she's back," Maschmeyer gushes.
His compliments do not stop there for the "newcomers" Janna Ensthaler (40), Tijen Onaran (39) and Tillman Schulz (34). "All three add a unique vibe to the show. Tijen brings a provocative energy to the den. Tillman's a natural food expert, and Janna approaches the founders with empathy, finesse, and startup fund expertise," Maschmeyer remarks.
Missing a Familiar Face – Carsten Maschmeyer
However, one former lion is sorely missed. Nico Rosberg (39) left the show in 2022. "We're friends off-screen and frequent friends in southern France. We still discuss investments and the startup scene daily. His return would certainly add an exciting twist," Maschmeyer states.
Upcoming for "The Lion's Den"
Maschmeyer hopes for many more pitches in the future. He believes that the show will continue to air on TV for another decade. No other format, as per him, can "bring entrepreneurship so entertainingly and comprehensibly into German homes." Frequent young entrepreneurs he meets in his investor role are inspired by "The Lion's Den", which he finds remarkable.
Maschmeyer's personal future in "The Lion's Den"? "As long as I still enjoy it, innovative startups persist, and the audience is satisfied, I'll stick with it," he promises the entrepreneur.
In the continuation of the show, Maschmeyer reveals that he had a pleasant reunion with 'Frank Thelen' at their old setup, expressing that it was both nostalgic and had unique dynamics. During one of his encounters, Maschmeyer bumped into Thelen at Adele's concert in Munich.
