Overview

• The farewell special aired on September 14 as an open‑air event on the Seebühne in Magdeburg, with Calmund’s handpicked celebrity guests in attendance.
• The 76‑year‑old concluded a run credited with 263 episodes and more than 1,900 judged dishes.
• An emotional send‑off featured tributes from the team and a gold‑colored commemorative fork, followed by the late‑night special Prominent! Spezial – Danke Calli!.
• Calmund said the decision reflects his wish to scale back after a heart rhythm disorder was treated last winter, adding that he feels well and plans only smaller appearances, especially in football.
• Producers will not name a permanent successor, with reports pointing to rotating guest jurors such as Bruce Darnell, Joachim Llambi and Guido Maria Kretschmer.