The decision by North German Broadcasting (NDR) to cease working with journalist Julia Ruhs has drawn criticism, with former late-night talk show host Harald Schmidt drawing parallels to recent controversies in the United States. Schmidt, in comments to the “Tagesspiegel” suggested the NDR’s action mirrored a broader trend of accountability seen in American late-night television, specifically referencing the recent cancellation of segments from Jimmy Kimmel’s show due to political sensitivity.
Ruhs previously hosted several episodes of the NDR and Bavarian Broadcasting (BR) program “Klar” a format that explores socially contentious issues. The program’s inaugural episode, focusing on migration, generated significant attention, with Ruhs addressing instances of violence connected to immigration patterns.
Following the announcement that NDR will no longer engage Ruhs for program moderation, both broadcasters confirmed she will remain part of the moderator team for episodes produced by BR. Ruhs, author of “Left-Green Opinion Power-The Division of Our Country” hails from Baden-Württemberg. The situation highlights ongoing considerations regarding journalistic content, the treatment of potentially divisive topics and the balance between editorial independence and organizational responsibility within public service broadcasting.