# TV 2 controversy regarding Rasmus Wallbridge prank

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/tv-2-controversy-regarding-rasmus-wallbridge-prank
> Updated: 2026-11-01T17:10:00.000Z. Sources: 13. Developments: 2.

Danish broadcaster TV 2 withdrew its program ‘Alle elsker Rasmus’ following intense criticism over its treatment of comedian Rasmus Wallbridge. For four months, Wallbridge was led to believe he was developing a feature film with colleague Martin Johannes Larsen, only to discover the project was a staged prank involving 149 participants. TV 2 program director Dorthe Thirstrup issued an unconditional apology, admitting a failure in judgment and stating the broadcaster did not adequately protect Wallbridge. The program was removed from TV 2 Play and TV 2 Echo.

Media experts, including Thomas Pallesen, noted that using hidden cameras in private settings could potentially constitute a breach of the penal code regarding unauthorized photography. The production faced accusations of gaslighting and psychological manipulation. Danish Culture Minister Zenia Stampe described the show as an “unpleasant psychological experiment,” while singer Hilda Heick criticized the treatment of the participant. Martin Johannes Larsen expressed regret, stating he had not sufficiently considered the potential consequences of the project.

Public backlash has intensified, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and comedian Torben Chris condemning the show’s ethical failings. Critics have described the deception as “psychological torture.” In response, TV 2 has launched an investigation into its production processes and ethical decision-making. The broadcaster has enlisted former DR editor Jesper Termansen to assist in the probe. The scandal has also impacted other programs, as TV chef Hannah Grant announced a hiatus from ‘Go’ morgen Danmark,’ citing concerns regarding TV 2’s leadership and moral compass.

## Claims

- Rasmus Wallbridge was led to believe for four months that he was developing a feature film. (reported by 3 sources)
- The prank was organized by TV 2 and Drive Studios. (reported by 2 sources)
- Approximately 149 friends and acquaintances participated in the prank. (reported by 2 sources)
- Rasmus Wallbridge urged TV 2 not to create similar concepts in the future. (reported by 2 sources)
- TV 2 program director Dorthe Thirstrup suggested the possibility of similar formats in an interview with Politiken. (reported by 2 sources)
- Wallbridge denied that the situation was a ‘double prank’ where he was in on the joke. (reported by 1 source)

## Timeline

### 2026-11-01: TV 2 faces backlash over Rasmus Wallbridge prank series

TV 2 has withdrawn its series ‘Alle elsker Rasmus’ following widespread condemnation of its treatment of comedian Rasmus Wallbridge, sparking an internal investigation and high-profile resignations.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tv-2-launches-investigation-into-alle-elsker-rasmus-series

### 2026-10-30: TV 2 withdraws program after Rasmus Wallbridge prank controversy

TV 2 has withdrawn the program ‘Alle elsker Rasmus’ and issued an apology after a four-month prank on comedian Rasmus Wallbridge drew accusations of gaslighting and psychological manipulation.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rasmus-wallbridge-criticizes-tv-2-prank-format

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Cite as: TV 2 controversy regarding Rasmus Wallbridge prank. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/tv-2-controversy-regarding-rasmus-wallbridge-prank