Germany's contribution to the Eurovision Song Contest was once again a complete disappointment. Is it better to save the participation fee?
Liverpool – Germany, zero points – all too often this was the bitter result in the scoring of the Eurovision Song Contest. A measly 18 points and the 26th and thus last place stood in the end for the rock band "Lord of the Lost", which had sent Germany into the race. There is plenty of criticism of Germany's performance – and also the question of whether it is still worthwhile to compete from a German point of view. Because it is not cheap for any of the participants to be there. That's why ex-participant Guildo Horn wrote on Facebook: "Unfortunately, the light at the end of the tunnel shines out" and advised: "Just take a break and invest the money saved (Germany is one of the big donors of the ESC) sensibly."
The participation fee at the ESC alone costs Germany almost half a million euros
And how much money would that be? As the Rheinische Post reports, the pleasure of providing a starter cost Germany a fee of 473,000 euros at the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). According to NDR, this is "cheap" compared to other entertainment shows, even if the price was higher due to a smaller field of participants and the absence of Russia.
The disappointment is written on the faces of the musicians of Lord Of The Lost. © Peter Kneffel/dpa
The broadcaster responsible for the ESC has not disclosed the other production costs, but also argues that these are significantly higher at other major events such as sports. By way of comparison, producing a "Tatort" episode costs ARD around 1.5 to 1.7 million euros, according to media reports. According to a report by Eurovision Fun, the production costs are likely to amount to the same amount as the participation fee, in the example of Spain 302,000 euros and 380,000 euros.
Many Germans switch off after the performance of "Lord of the Lost"
In any case, the odds speak for the ESC in Germany. Almost eight million people watched the final of the ESC 2023 on Das Erste and ONE. However, research by the TV data analysts at adscanner showed that many users switched off the TV after the appearance of the German candidates. Without a contribution from Germany, the ratings would probably collapse – if the show were broadcast at all without a German contribution. (cgsc)
What a lucky guy! ESC supporter Serena traveled to Liverpool for the show without a ticket. On the return journey, she was rewarded for her hardships.
