Satire Show Creators Criticize ZDF's Exclusion of Rapper Danger Dan

The creators of the German satire program "Die Anstalt" have sharply criticized public broadcaster ZDF's decision to exclude rapper Danger Dan from a broadcast. In their 100th anniversary episode, streamed in advance on Saturday evening, the three hosts elaborated on the controversy.

Co-host Claus von Wagner stated, "We understand that opinions on the song can be divided, but we find ZDF's decision cowardly at a time when right-wing extremist violence has once again reached a peak in the history of the Federal Republic." The team read aloud passages from Danger Dan's song "Keine Angst" (No Fear), commenting on them. One section discusses the potential legal ramifications of researching and publishing the names of right-wing extremists.

Moderator Max Uthoff noted that the team had extensively debated the song's final lines, which mention four first names identical to those of known left-wing extremists. He emphasized that while they condemn violence, the question arises when the state fails to uphold its monopoly on force, leaving people unprotected from Nazis. Uthoff expressed the team's wish that Danger Dan could have performed, allowing for subsequent discussion.

ZDF had explained that the song's lyrics could be interpreted as an incitement to political extremism, promoting vigilantism, and not ruling out illegal acts and violence. Oliver Heidemann, head of ZDF's Show department, underscored that the decision was not made lightly and regretted the time it took.