Overview
- AGF data show the ARD live show averaged about 4.55 million viewers for a 25.7% share, versus 2.47 million and 14.1% for ZDF’s broadcast.
- In the 14–49 demographic, ZDF led with roughly 0.76 million viewers and a 21.8% share, compared with 0.54 million and 15.4% for Silbereisen’s program.
- The ARD event played to a sold‑out Munich arena, while ZDF’s relocated Hamburg production on a floating stage drew about 9,000 attendees against a 12,000 target.
- Both broadcasts hit snags, with ZDF facing on‑air technical problems handled by Johannes B. Kerner and Andrea Kiewel, and ARD continuing smoothly after Stefan Mross tangled in his in‑ear and guitar cable.
- During the ARD show, Howard Carpendale clarified that he is ending large arena tours but not retiring from performing.