Steven Gätjen: “Social media now was MTV and Viva earlier”

As a television presenter, Steven Gätjen (52) has already moderated many successful programs, he started his career like many of his current colleagues at the MTV music station. “What social media is now was MTV and Viva,” explains the 52-year-old. The entertainer does not see a competition between social media and classic television. “I believe that one requires the other and that there will always be coexistence and must exist.”

On the sidelines of the social media games show “Beat the Brand” by Deichmann, which he moderated together with the successful influencer Selfiesandra (25), reveals how active the moderator himself is on Instagram and Co. He also looks at the upcoming Oscar ceremony. The film expert has been reporting on the most important film prices in the world for over 20 years.

Steven Gätjen: This is basically the same – only it is broadcast on another platform. Whether streaming, social media or linear television – in the end the content and the type of implementation count. I love live events in particular because they are immediately. You can’t hide mistakes, it remains authentic. It is quick, you have to be spontaneous, fully concentrated and reaction fast. And that is exactly what makes me special charm.

Gätjen: Social media is an integral part of the media landscape and offers many advantages – it is also just fun. While it often takes longer to react to certain things on television, social media are immediately, fast and personal. I can respond to events, make things clear and express my opinion without needing a broadcaster that exudes my words. This enables me to directly share my values, my expertise and my fun on certain topics and get in touch with the people for whom I do it all – the spectators. The feedback is important to me, and constructive criticism also helps to develop further. I think social media is great.

Gätjen: I think one requires the other – there will always be a coexistence. Sure, social media formats such as Instagram or TikTok shows are faster in implementation. But quality remains important. Both sides should learn from each other. I think it’s a shame when it is said that one destroy the other. Many creators still want to appear on television.

Gätjen: Exactly – or people like Knossi, Montanblack or Trimax. There are so many talented people out there. What social media is today was MTV and Viva – experimental television. At that time it was said: “Just do something, and if you are good, you will get resonance.” Today it works much faster. I learn a lot from working with Sandra or Knossi – and hope that you also take something from me.

Gätjen: “Beat the Brand” emerged from a situation in which different brands have challenged each other about their social media channels. Deichmann then had the idea: “You can write a lot – but now let’s see what you really do.” In the show, six brands compete against each other in different challenges with previously elongated teams. The brand, which is best in the games, is at the end of the winner – of course with a wink.

Gätjen: Unfortunately, I see little chance because he is competing against “Emilia Pérez” in the “Best Foreign Language Film” category – one of the films with the most nominations next to “Wicked” and “The Brutalist”. But you shouldn’t underestimate how much attention brings nomination – especially for a smaller project with a strong political message. “The sowing of the holy fig tree” is a great and important film.

Gätjen: I watch all the films beforehand. That may sound crazy, but for me it is essential to understand how much work is behind the productions. Every year we create an “Oscar Bible” with all films, nominated and presenters. There is a profile for every person. We also consider five to ten questions and are looking for a perfect “icebreaker question” for the red carpet – hoping that we can also ask them.

Gätjen: This actually happens more and more. Once Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson came up to me after the interview and said: “Steven, Thank you so much for your great work over the decades.” [dt.: “Steven, vielen Dank für deine großartige Arbeit der letzten Jahrzehnte.”] Then I just thought: “Wow, cool that you remember.” At some point Brad Pitt said: “You are already part of the inventory. Whenever I am in Germany, we’ll meet.” Such moments are of course particularly beautiful. But in the end it is the press spokesman and management that have met me over the years. This creates trust. You know that I take my job seriously and I’m passionate about it. This appreciation means a lot to me – and that’s why I love what I do.