Overview

• Public broadcaster SWR confirmed that Mross’s mother, Stefanie, died in Upper Bavaria at age 85 last week, prompting a brief family leave.
• On 24 August the show aired live from Rust with Hertel moderating and singer Uta Bresan assisting, and Hertel opened with an on-air message to Mross.
• The broadcast proceeded as scheduled with performances by Hansi Hinterseer and other Schlager acts.
• Mross later posted on Instagram to thank fans, his production team and Hertel for their support during his bereavement.
• Hertel told viewers Mross is expected to return for the 31 August season finale, a timeline stated on-air rather than formally confirmed by SWR, as colleagues including Andrea Kiewel publicly offered condolences.