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yesterday

Helmut Thoma, Pioneer of German Private TV, Dies at 86

His family disclosed that the media manager died of heart failure on May 3 in Vienna, marking the end of a career that transformed RTL into Germany’s leading private channel.

Helmut Thoma
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Overview

  • Thoma died of heart failure on his 86th birthday on May 3 in Vienna, with his passing announced by his family on May 26.
  • He steered RTL from 1984 to 1998, building it into Germany’s most successful commercial broadcaster during the 1980s and 1990s.
  • Under his leadership, RTL introduced enduring formats such as “Gute Zeiten, schlechte Zeiten” and “Tutti Frutti” and secured sports rights for Formula 1 and Wimbledon.
  • Renowned for catchphrases like “The bait must suit the fish, not the angler,” Thoma weathered criticism over sensational content yet earned honors including Medienmann des Jahres (1989) and an International Emmy (1994).
  • Political and media leaders, including North Rhine-Westphalia Minister-President Hendrik Wüst, lauded his unconventional approach and lasting influence on television.