Overview
- The show relaunched with a compact six‑episode run and a record 16 masked contestants, with four new figures per preliminary episode and two demaskings per show to produce eight semifinalists.
- Episodes were pre‑recorded in Cologne and ProSieben sold paid tickets for studio recordings that took place between late August and mid‑September, shifting the elimination decision from at‑home viewers to the studio audience.
- The semifinal, which aired Wednesday, October 14, produced three additional demaskings and fixed the five finalists who will compete in the broadcast finale on October 21.
- Coverage noted weak TV ratings so far despite a high‑profile cast, and on‑air guessing by guest rategast Eko Fresh produced a widely reported but incorrect suggestion involving a former politician.
- ProSieben and producer Endemol Shine Germany say the changes follow international practice in the US and UK and make scheduling easier for busy celebrities while increasing the show’s pace and number of reveal moments.