Overview
- The Schlagerbooom Open Air episode was prerecorded earlier in June and broadcast by ARD on Saturday, June 27, during which Michelle delivered a staged televised farewell to end her TV and stage career.
- During the segment Michelle read a handwritten letter on stage and closed with the farewell song "Das war's für mich," which programme credits say was written by her ex‑fiancé Eric Philippi, while drones formed a tribute over the stadium.
- Viewers noticed an on‑screen notice that the show was recorded and flagged discrepancies such as weather and wardrobe, which prompted immediate online confusion and discussion about the decision not to air the event live.
- Fans also criticised ARD for a career montage that ended in 2021 and omitted recent material involving Eric Philippi, producing a wave of social‑media frustration and scepticism about how the singer's final chapter was presented.
- Other storylines from the broadcast carried through: Mark Medlock's TV comeback won positive reaction, and Eric Philippi ended his social‑media silence the day after the airing to promote a live appearance on August 8, keeping the public conversation active.