Matthias Killing addresses mass layoffs in German television

The German television industry is facing significant restructuring, leading to a wave of layoffs at major private broadcasters including RTL, ProSieben, and Sat. 1. Matthias Killing, a prominent moderator for Sat. 1's breakfast television, described the situation as “brutal” while noting that the industry is subject to constant market competition.

Killing attributed these changes to the increasing importance of streaming services, which are drawing viewers away from linear television. To adapt to this shifting landscape, he advised colleagues to diversify their professional skill sets. Killing has personally expanded his portfolio by hosting live sports broadcasts and taking on a new role as the moderator for “The Voice of Germany.”

Despite the current instability, Killing expressed confidence in the future of linear television, suggesting that while the medium is evolving, it will remain relevant for at least another decade.