On the occasion of the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. (1927-2022), several German TV stations change their programs. Today, December 31, at 7:30 p.m., the first broadcast will show “The Death of Benedict XVI – An Obituary by Claus Singer”. The film looks back on the life and work of Joseph Ratzinger, who was Pope Benedict XVI from 2005 to 2013. at the head of the Roman Catholic Church.
After the “Tagesschau” and the traditional New Year’s speech by the Federal Chancellor, Erste also broadcasts the “Focal point: mourning for Benedict XVI.”. Here, too, the life, work and controversies surrounding Benedict are highlighted. As an interview guest, Andreas Bachmann welcomes Georg Bätzing (61), the chairman of the German Bishops’ Conference. “The Big New Year’s Eve Show” with Francine Jordi (45) and Hans Sigl (53) is postponed by ten minutes and starts at 8:25 p.m.
From 5:55 p.m., ZDF will show the documentary “Pope Benedict XVI – A Life”, which will also illuminate the life and work of the deceased. In addition, there are scandals during his tenure. After the New Year’s speech, which can be seen on ZDF from 7:25 p.m., the station will also show “ZDF special: Mourning for Benedict XVI.”, moderated by Andreas Klinner (53), from 7:40 p.m.
Bayerischer Rundfunk is also changing its programme. The news magazine “BR24” gets an extended edition from 6:30 p.m., at 8:15 p.m. the “Brennpunkt” runs at the same time as the first. The above-mentioned obituary by Claus Singer can also be seen on BR at 8:25 p.m. The documentary “Vision and Reality. Pope Benedict in Germany” from 2011 will follow from 9:10 p.m. Visit to Germany in September of that year.
On New Year’s Day, the live broadcast “Mourning for Benedict” will be broadcast on BR at 8:15 p.m. Ursula Heller (61) speaks as moderator with companions and experts about the person Joseph Ratzinger and the legacy of Benedict XVI. The 90-minute film “The Bavarian Pope – the Life of Joseph Ratzinger” will follow this live broadcast at 9:30 p.m. Crucial stations in the life of Joseph Ratzinger are illuminated, companions and contemporary witnesses have their say in front of the camera.
