With the switch to RTL, the format will be revitalised, although some familiar elements will be retained. Texas Hold'em remains the centrepiece of the game, but the channel is allowed to change the show elements to freshen up the format. Viewers are excited, but Stefan Raab's comeback on RTL is not limited to the poker night.
The broadcaster plans to accompany his return with further shows in order to reach a larger audience and strengthen its market share on German television. The collaboration with GGPoker.de is the next logical step, as it enables interactive viewer participation and anchors the format more firmly online.
TV channel ends poker broadcasts and opens up space for Raab's TV comeback
Now that Sport1 no longer wants poker in its programme, the German poker landscape has changed. Sport1 is no longer showing poker, but Stefan Raab is returning with poker on TV. These programmes will be broadcast on RTL and promise to fill the gap left by Sport1's withdrawal from poker.
Rules of the game, prize money and production details: everything on the table
In Texas Hold'em, each player is dealt two cards face down, while five community cards are placed face up on the table. The aim is to form the best five-card hand. The poker format with Stefan Raab is based on this game mode, which is both beginner-friendly and exciting for experienced players.
The game is divided into four phases: Pre-Flop, Flop, Turn and River, in each of which players can place bets. The programme's prize pool is attractively designed to motivate both the celebrities and the wildcard winner. The exact breakdown of the prize money for the individual placings will be announced during the programme, but it promises to be exciting and motivating.
Several episodes are planned in the production, which will be recorded at a central location. Poker expert Michael Körner will commentate the action. Viewers can also watch the show live in the studio, which is organised via ticket sales. Being part of the audience gives fans the chance to follow the stars and the production up close.
Qualification for viewers: your way to the table
Participants have the opportunity to secure a seat at the celebrity poker table through various tournaments. Tournaments on offer include freerolls, which are free to enter and therefore open to everyone, and $0.10 qualifiers, which offer a low-cost entry option.
To participate, interested parties must register on the platform and accept the terms and conditions. This qualification process also gives viewers the chance to become an active part of the show and prove their poker skills against prominent opponents.
Outlook and conclusion: Success guaranteed?
Stefan Raab's comeback with Poker Night has the potential to be an instant success on German television. The popular format returns with a high-calibre cast, including well-known faces such as presenter legend Elton and other celebrity players. A lucrative prize pool and a strong PR campaign will also attract attention.
Given the format's successful past and the general popularity of poker, viewing figures could be high. The quality of the entertainment, the interaction between the celebrities and the involvement of the viewers through the wildcard qualification will be important here.
Overall, Raab's return to poker could revolutionise the TV landscape and provide new impulse in the entertainment sector. The programme could also generate increased interest in other tournaments such as the German Poker Days. Either way, TV Total Pokernacht fans are looking forward to this comeback.