TV chef Sebastian Lege to leave ZDF for RTL in 2027

Sebastian Lege, a TV chef and food developer, is leaving German public broadcaster ZDF for RTL in 2027.

He has presented ZDF’s “Besseresser” for nearly 10 years, and the show has drawn strong ratings among younger viewers.

Lege says ZDF increasingly influenced the programme and rejected ideas he wanted to pursue, including more everyday food advice and positive examples.

He says the disputes left him deeply frustrated and affected his sleep.

According to Lege, creative freedom—not money—was the main reason for the move.

The “Besseresser” brand will stay with ZDF, while Lege plans to make programmes for RTL through his own production company, Pausenclown Media.

ZDF’s response to his accusations was not included.