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TV 2 withdraws program after Rasmus Wallbridge prank controversy
Danish broadcaster TV 2 has apologized and withdrawn its program ‘Alle elsker Rasmus’ following intense criticism. The series involved a four-month prank where comedian Rasmus Wallbridge was led to believe he was developing a feature film with his friend, Martin Johannes Larsen, while being filmed via hidden cameras by 149 participants.
The production has faced accusations of gaslighting and psychological manipulation. Martin Johannes Larsen expressed regret, stating he had not sufficiently considered the potential consequences of the project. Media expert Thomas Pallesen noted that the use of hidden cameras in private settings could potentially constitute a breach of the Danish penal code regarding unauthorized photography.
Public figures and officials have weighed in on the controversy. Danish Culture Minister Zenia Stampe described the show as an “unpleasant psychological experiment,” while singer Hilda Heick criticized the treatment of the participant. Despite the backlash, Wallbridge has continued his professional work, receiving public support from local venues.
Entities
Denmark · Dorthe Thirstrup · Drive Studios · Martin Johannes Larsen · Rasmus Wallbridge · TV 2 · Zenia Stampe
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The prank was organized by TV 2 and Drive Studios. presse-fotos.dk
- [● 2 SOURCES] TV 2 program director Dorthe Thirstrup suggested the possibility of similar formats in an interview with Politiken. presse-fotos.dk
- [● 2 SOURCES] Approximately 149 friends and acquaintances participated in the prank. presse-fotos.dk
- [● 3 SOURCES] Rasmus Wallbridge was led to believe for four months that he was developing a feature film. presse-fotos.dk
- [● 2 SOURCES] Rasmus Wallbridge urged TV 2 not to create similar concepts in the future. presse-fotos.dk
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Wallbridge denied that the situation was a ‘double prank’ where he was in on the joke.