RTL Restructures Programming to Highlight NFL Action

Published: October 13, 2024

As the new NFL season kicks off, changes are afoot at RTL, affecting its programming lineup significantly. The network has decided to prioritize NFL broadcasts, prompting a temporary break for a beloved TV classic.

In a notable shift, RTL has put its long-running show Exclusiv Weekend on hold until mid-November. Hosted by the well-known Frauke Ludowig, the program will only be available for streaming on RTL+ during this period. This marks a significant adjustment, considering that the show typically airs on Sundays at 5:45 PM.

RTL’s reshuffle highlights the growing popularity and investment in NFL programming, with the network keen to showcase key matchups including the London Games. Fans can expect to see NFL games starting as early as 2:30 PM on Sundays, with coverage being interrupted only for the RTL Aktuell news segment at 6:45 PM. On October 27, the NFL broadcasts will even kick off at the earlier time of 5:45 PM, further emphasizing RTL’s commitment.

In a major highlight of the NFL season, the NFL Munich Game is scheduled for November 10, promising an exciting atmosphere for fans in attendance and viewers at home. Meanwhile, on November 3, RTL will air Bauer sucht Frau International – Die neuen Bauern weltweit, replacing its usual slot for Exclusiv Weekend. The show will feature Inka Bause introducing new dating hopefuls, keeping RTL’s content diverse.

Exclusiv Weekend is expected to make its triumphant return to linear television on November 17 after a lengthy absence. Having been a staple of RTL’s Sunday lineup since 1998, the program’s temporary relocation to online viewing underscores the urgent need to cater to the insatiable demand for NFL content. The loyalty of its viewers will be tested, however, as they await the show’s return to its traditional format and time slot.

Recent episodes have not been without their hiccups; the show faced an unexpected interruption during a live segment where production had to step in to pause the proceedings. Moments like these keep the audience on their toes, but nothing seems to sway the popularity of both Exclusiv Weekend and NFL broadcasts on RTL.

For sports fans and viewers alike, these changes reflect RTL’s strategic priorities and their commitment to providing the most thrilling content available while adjusting to viewer preferences in real-time.

As the NFL season progresses, fans can keep an eye on the schedule to catch all the action. The network might just redefine how we consume both sports and entertainment in the weeks to come, all while showing that the NFL has firmly secured its place in RTL’s broadcasting heart.