German singer-songwriter Danger Dan and pianist Igor Levit were invited to perform a song titled "Keine Angst” (No Fear) for the 100th episode of a political satire TV show called "Die Anstalt" (The Institution). But shortly before the recording of the program, public broadcaster ZDF withdrew the invitation.
The sudden cancellation is sparking discussions on freedom of artistic expression and the limits of political speech in Germany. It is also drawing attention to the new song, which reached the top of the country's YouTube music charts shortly after the musicians decried the cancellation on June 17.
The broadcaster argued that parts of the lyrics could be interpreted as endorsing political extremism, vigilantism or violence against far-right activists, noting that this would conflict with ZDF's programming guidelines.
Show hosts condemn cancellation
"Die Anstalt" combines in-depth, single-topic investigations and political comedy. In the special 100th episode, titled "Die ANTIFAnstalt," the comedians analyzed the program of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which is currently the most popular political party in Germany, all while civil rights groups are assessing it for potential unconstitutionality and ban proceedings.
