April 19, 2026

Low Ratings for ZDF’s Gay-Themed Herzkino Romances

The queer ZDF feature film “Baumgeflüster” drew significantly fewer viewers on Sunday night than usual. The romantic comedy about a gay couple, broadcast at 8:15 p.m., was watched by only 1.99 million viewers. That represented a 7.9 percent market share—a low for that time slot.

For comparison: On ARD, the parallel-broadcast “Polizeiruf 110” attracted 7.64 million viewers and a 30.2 percent share. In the advertiser-friendly 14- to 49-year-old demographic, ZDF also trailed behind the competition. Here, “Baumgeflüster” earned 3.9 percent, while the ARD crime drama reached 14.7 percent.

Later in the evening, ZDF managed to extend its reach. The “heute-journal” at 9:45 p.m. drew 3.78 million viewers and a 16.9 percent share. Subsequently, 2.44 million people watched the mystery series “Dan Sommerdahl,” corresponding to 15.5 percent.

Gallery:
Baumgeflüster
16 Pictures
Marcy Ellerton
Marcy Ellerton
My name is Marcy Ellerton, and I’ve been telling stories since I could hold a pen. As a queer journalist based in Minneapolis, I cover everything from grassroots activism to the everyday moments that make our community shine. When I’m not chasing a story, you’ll probably find me in a coffee shop, scribbling notes in a well-worn notebook and eavesdropping just enough to catch the next lead.