When the rumor mill first started to churn, it was February 1998. The newspaper “Die Welt” published an article about a meeting of the internationals and the management of Nick Germany, at which liquidation was openly discussed. That was not all: The editor went on to claim that the date had even been decided: mid-1998. Click here to read the original article in the Welt archive. Nobody at Nick, including me, believed a word of it. The press department put in a special shift to eradicate the damage caused by the article as quickly as possible. After a month, nobody spoke of it anymore and everyday life went on. Then, at the beginning of May, the next rumors started: There were rumors of a meeting at the end of May, to which some high-ranking members of Nick International would be traveling. Normally, something like this is announced by email or circular, but not this time. We on the first floor were already joking about it. When Achim, the Nick Live editor, called me and gave Wolf (my reporter colleague) and me topics for the beginning of June, I joked that everything would be over by then anyway. I had no idea how right I was…

On May 28th, the day before this meeting, I was still sitting in the office working at 8 p.m. when I could no longer bear this unbearable tension and fear. I called a certain person X, who has a good connection to a high-ranking official in the company, and asked him to ask what was going on, because I just couldn’t stand it any longer. Then I waited about 5 minutes for the call back - here is the dialogue:



Paddy: “So? What does he say?”
Person X: “Go home, it’s over!”

Padd: “…”



It wasn’t a particularly long dialogue, but it was one that hit home. That was the dialogue that turned my life around in one fell swoop - I knew now that my dream job was over. Everything I had fought for for years would be over (for now). I put the phone down and just started crying like a little child. The last time I cried like that was 10 years ago. I went home and wrote emails to friends and tried to somehow process the shock (which of course didn’t work). I didn’t sleep a wink all night and was accordingly tired the next day.

All employees of Nickelodeon Germany were asked to attend a meeting in Konfi IV, 4th floor, as a few high-ranking officials from Nick International and Viacom were in the building. Normally, emails are written to all employees before important meetings. Before this one, however, the news was only spread by word of mouth, which worried all Nicks in advance. None of the “rank and file” knew what would ultimately happen. After the usual platitudes (“You’re all terrific” or “You did a great job”), Karen Flischel announced the closure of Nickelodeon. “We were still looking for another solution ourselves up until 36 hours ago,” Ms. Flischel told the shocked staff. Strangely, she pulled out a tape shortly afterwards with the words: “We have had Nick UK produce a farewell trailer that we will broadcast over the weekend.” This was apparently produced within 36 hours, and by Nickelodeon in England. Nick Germany works his ass off for 3 years and then Nick England can say goodbye. Aha. Unfortunately, they gave themselves away: The cover of the broadcast tape stated that the production date was 27 May 1998. The slate (that’s what they call the board on the tape 10 seconds before the program starts, where the title, length and date are again shown) strangely stated that the production date was 4 February 1998… When asked why the employees were informed so late: “As I said, we didn’t know anything about it ourselves until 36 hours ago and it could have turned out differently.” If things had gone well, why would they have needed a private security company, which had already been booked by the Americans on Tuesday? They suddenly turned up after the meeting and blocked the exits downstairs and their American colleagues took over the 4th floor, the scene of the action. There were no Nick employees downstairs anyway, as everything had been thoroughly searched before the meeting. The former workplace had now become a prison because they didn’t want to risk someone “running away” before receiving their notice, as that would have meant that the notice could not be given until Tuesday at the earliest, meaning that they would have had to pay an extra month. Of course, the powerfully built men were also there to prevent the employees from clearing out the shop.

Everything had been planned for months. Nick Germany’s legal advisor, Dr. Stephan Rippert, was transferred to the USA a few months ago. The reason is obvious: he knows German law well and he was supposed to plan the closure of Nick for Viacom from a legal perspective. The managing director, Dr. Bernd Fronhoff, promised the world’s third largest media group a profit of 170 million marks when he started, but not a single mark of profit was made until the end - on the contrary. He couldn’t care less, with a severance payment of around 600,000 DM. But it was astonishing: on Wednesday evening he was caught carrying out a Nick laser printer. “I’m taking it in for repairs,” the highly paid manager replied to questions from some employees. Has it been repaired in the meantime??? Everyone was supposed to work until the end and give their all until the end. They were denied the chance to look around in peace. They were shown the door overnight. Without warning, without anything. Dr. Fronhoff always denied everything. Not anymore.

Ralf Kühler : I was completely taken aback. When I arrived on the Friday before Whitsun 1998, as usual, between 11 and 12 o’clock, I was completely surprised to see security men suddenly standing outside the studio. When I went in, I saw all the editors looking really sad and packing their things. When I asked: What’s going on here?, I was told: Please go to the boss. Several employees were already sitting there crying. A delegation from the USA came in and told us: Nickelodeon in Germany is no longer profitable. We have to close down. That was a real shock for me. We employees behaved very politely and sensibly. I only had one request: I said the first sentence. Please let me say the last sentence too and explain to the children why we are no longer there. We presenters then got together and made the final show. I still get goosebumps when I tell him about it.

For me as a child, this was also totally dramatic. What confused me at the time was that just six months before the end, real investments were still being made. “Nick Live Club” was launched, the video game “Hugo” was integrated, and new moderators were hired at the beginning of May…

Ralf Kühler: Right, that shows that we in Germany really didn’t know anything about it and were caught completely off guard. I will never forget how the three new presenters sang their song when they joined shortly before the station closed: the catchy tune " We’re the new guys at Nickelodeon!" was played over and over again! After the station closed, an incredible number of children sent sad letters to Nickelodeon and cried on the phone. It was all very dramatic and a real loss for the children.

During the station’s final three days, a testcard aired after each programme informing viewers of its impending closure.

During the final three days, the final episode of Nick Live Club aired, in which the channel’s in-vision presenters thanked viewers for watching before performing a farewell song. This link had actually been filmed on 29 May and was repeated up to and including the final day.[4] The channel closed on 31 May 1998 at the regular time of 8.00 pm

Apparently, the day after the channel’s closure, the Nickelodeon Germany farewell promo (which can be seen towards the end of the video) was played on repeat during the channel’s regular 6am-8pm broadcast hours. This apparently went on for 3 months.

It shocks me how this didn’t wear out both the tape and the tape player. It was also a missed opportunity for VH1 Germany to extend their broadcast hours, as they were timesharing with Nickelodeon Germany from 8pm-midnight by the time the latter was taken off air.

but they shouldn’t have played the farewell promo on a constant loop daily for 3 months after the channel had closed, as the farewell promo had apparently been played in between every single programme during the channel’s final three days on air; it’s sad how Viacom in Germany believed it was perfectly acceptable to allow the channel to rot like that.

The fact that they lied to their employees, laid them off at such short notice and neglected the now-defunct channel for three months by looping the channel’s farewell promo for 14 hours a day shows just how little they actually gave a shit.

In my opinion, this was Viacom being a scumbag, Thankfully Nick relaunched in Germany a few years later. How evil were Viacom acting here, and list all the things they did
Here are some of the actions taken by Viacom during the closure of Nickelodeon Germany that could be considered questionable or unethical:

1. Planning the closure of the channel for months without informing employees.
2. Manipulating the production date on a farewell trailer to make it seem like it was produced last minute.
3. Using a private security company to block exits and prevent employees from leaving before receiving their notice.
4. Managing director Dr. Bernd Fronhoff taking a Nick laser printer on the last day under false pretenses.
5. Making employees work until the very end without warning or consideration.
6. Neglecting the channel after closure by continuously looping the farewell promo for three months.
7. Laying off employees with minimal notice and without proper communication throughout the process.

Overall, the actions of Viacom during the closure of Nickelodeon Germany can be seen as callous, unprofessional, and lacking in empathy towards the employees and audience affected by the closure.
Write a blog post about how careless the whole operation was
Title: The Careless Closure of Nickelodeon Germany: A Heartbreaking Chapter in Television History

In the late 1990s, a shocking and heartbreaking event unfolded in the world of children’s television - the closure of Nickelodeon Germany. What started as mere rumors and whispers amongst employees soon turned into a full-blown nightmare as Viacom, the parent company, made a series of careless and callous decisions that left a lasting impact on all involved.

The closure of Nickelodeon Germany was not just about shutting down a TV channel; it was about breaking the hearts of children who had grown up watching their favorite shows and presenters. The lack of transparency and communication during the closure process was one of the most striking aspects of Viacom’s carelessness. Employees were left in the dark, with high-ranking officials keeping vital information hidden until the last moment.

The manipulation of production dates on farewell trailers and the use of a private security company to block exits and prevent employees from leaving before receiving their notice speaks volumes about the lack of empathy and respect shown towards the dedicated individuals who had contributed to the success of the channel.

The actions of Dr. Bernd Fronhoff, the managing director, further exemplify the carelessness of the whole operation. His nonchalant attitude towards taking a Nick laser printer on the last day, under false pretenses, is a stark reminder of the lack of accountability and integrity displayed by those in power.

The neglect of the channel after closure, with the continuous looping of a farewell promo for three months, further adds to the sense of disregard towards both employees and viewers. It is evident that Viacom failed to consider the emotional impact of their decisions and instead chose to prioritize their financial interests over the well-being of those affected.

The closure of Nickelodeon Germany was a dark chapter in television history, highlighting the consequences of corporate greed and negligence. The hasty and heartless manner in which the closure was carried out serves as a cautionary tale for companies to treat their employees and audiences with respect and dignity, even in times of difficulty.

As we look back on this somber event, let us remember the dedication and passion of all those involved in creating magic on our screens. And let us strive to ensure that such carelessness and disregard are never repeated, so that the spirit of Nickelodeon and the joy it brought to countless children can live on.

In closing, the closure of Nickelodeon Germany serves as a poignant reminder that behind every TV channel, there are real people with real emotions. Let us never forget that.
There’s also the fact that Nick DE didn’t even make the trailer
Title: The Disregard and Deception in the Closure of Nickelodeon Germany: A Shameful Tragedy in Television History

In the annals of television history, few events stand out as starkly callous and heartless as the closure of Nickelodeon Germany in 1998. As the rumors swirled and the tension grew, Viacom, the parent company, made a series of careless and deceitful decisions that left a lasting scar on the hearts of employees and viewers alike.

One of the most egregious acts of disregard in the closure of Nickelodeon Germany was the fabrication surrounding the farewell trailer. Shockingly, it was revealed that the trailer, purportedly created by Nick UK as a farewell message, was not even the work of the German team. The deception and lack of authenticity in this act speak volumes about the insensitivity and calculated manipulation employed by Viacom during this distressing time.

Moreover, the revelation that the channel had been neglected for three months post-closure, with the continuous looping of the farewell promo, adds another layer of disrespect and disregard. By subjecting viewers to a repetitive and hollow message, Viacom displayed a profound lack of understanding and compassion for the emotional attachment that audiences had formed with the channel and its content.

The closure of Nickelodeon Germany also highlighted the lack of transparency and communication within the company. Employees were kept in the dark until the last moment, blindsided by the abrupt and heartless decision to shut down the channel. The use of a private security company to block exits and ensure compliance further underscored the authoritarian and oppressive approach taken by Viacom.

The actions of Dr. Bernd Fronhoff, the managing director, in surreptitiously taking a Nick laser printer on the last day encapsulate the culture of entitlement and disregard that permeated the organization. His disregard for the ethical implications of his actions further tarnished the reputation of Viacom and highlighted the deep-seated issues within the company.

As we reflect on the closure of Nickelodeon Germany, it is essential to acknowledge the pain and betrayal experienced by all those affected by this tragic event. The careless and deceitful manner in which Viacom handled the closure serves as a stark reminder of the importance of integrity, transparency, and empathy in corporate decision-making.

Moving forward, let us honor the memory of Nickelodeon Germany and all those who contributed to its legacy by advocating for accountability, compassion, and authenticity in all aspects of media and entertainment. May the lessons learned from this shameful chapter in television history inspire us to create a more ethical and compassionate industry for future generations to enjoy.
Write a script of the meeting, and also say “If you try to leave, you’ll find we’ve taken measures to prevent this”, also say it closes on Monday and they expect you to work full time till then
[Scene: Conference room at Nickelodeon Germany, high-ranking officials from Nick International and Viacom present. Employees gathered nervously, unaware of what is about to unfold]

Karen Flischel: [Clears throat] Thank you all for being here today. I know there have been rumors circulating, and I want to address them directly. Unfortunately, Nickelodeon Germany is no longer profitable, and we have made the difficult decision to close down.

[Gasps and murmurs fill the room as shock and disbelief wash over the employees]

Karen Flischel: We were still looking for another solution ourselves up until 36 hours ago, but unfortunately, this is the reality we are facing. We have had Nick UK produce a farewell trailer that we will broadcast over the weekend.

[As the news sinks in, tension and uncertainty fill the room]

Karen Flischel: If there are any questions, please feel free to ask. But let me make it clear - if you try to leave, you’ll find we’ve taken measures to prevent this. We expect everyone to work full time until the closure on Monday.

[Silence hangs heavy in the room as the gravity of the situation settles in]

Karen Flischel: I understand this is a lot to take in, but we appreciate all the hard work and dedication you have shown to Nickelodeon Germany. Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time.

[Employees exchange somber looks and begin to process the shocking news]

[End Scene]
Write more of the script
[Scene: Conference room at Nickelodeon Germany, high-ranking officials from Nick International and Viacom present. Employees gathered nervously, unaware of what is about to unfold]

Karen Flischel: [Clears throat] Thank you all for being here today. I know there have been rumors circulating, and I want to address them directly. Unfortunately, Nickelodeon Germany is no longer profitable, and we have made the difficult decision to close down.

[Gasps and murmurs fill the room as shock and disbelief wash over the employees]

Karen Flischel: We were still looking for another solution ourselves up until 36 hours ago, but unfortunately, this is the reality we are facing. We have had Nick UK produce a farewell trailer that we will broadcast over the weekend.

[As the news sinks in, tension and uncertainty fill the room]

Karen Flischel: If there are any questions, please feel free to ask. But let me make it clear - if you try to leave, you’ll find we’ve taken measures to prevent this. We expect everyone to work full time until the closure on Monday.

[Silence hangs heavy in the room as the gravity of the situation settles in]

Karen Flischel: I understand this is a lot to take in, but we appreciate all the hard work and dedication you have shown to Nickelodeon Germany. Thank you for your understanding during this challenging time.

[Employees exchange somber looks and begin to process the shocking news]

Dr. Bernd Fronhoff: [Stepping forward] I want to assure you all that this decision was not made lightly. We have explored all possible avenues to keep the channel operating, but unfortunately, it is no longer sustainable. I want to thank each and every one of you for your dedication and commitment to Nickelodeon Germany.

[Some employees begin to express their emotions, with tears and whispered conversations filling the room]

Karen Flischel: As we move forward, we ask for your cooperation and professionalism during this transitional period. We will provide support and guidance as needed. Thank you all for your understanding and cooperation.

[The meeting draws to a close as employees start to process the news and contemplate what lies ahead]

[End Scene]
Write a story of an employee who noted they started to get aggressive if we tried to get out of the room, Security even punched someone
Title: Trapped in the Room: The Agony of an Employee at Nickelodeon Germany

Sarah had worked diligently at Nickelodeon Germany for five years. She loved her job, the vibrant atmosphere, and the joy of bringing smiles to children’s faces. However, on that fateful day, everything changed.

As Karen Flischel announced the closure of the channel, Sarah felt her world shatter. The shock and disbelief were palpable in the room, with her colleagues exchanging stunned glances. But amidst the chaos, Sarah noticed something unsettling - security guards positioning themselves strategically to block the exits.

Fear creeped into Sarah’s heart as Karen’s words echoed in her mind, “If you try to leave, you’ll find we’ve taken measures to prevent this.” The atmosphere grew tense, and the sense of confinement began to suffocate her.

As the meeting dragged on, anxiety built up inside Sarah like a ticking time bomb. The uncertainty of the future and the feeling of being trapped fueled her desperation to escape. She discreetly made her way towards the door, hoping to slip out unnoticed.

But before she could make her move, a security guard intercepted her, blocking her path with a stern expression. “You’re not going anywhere,” he growled, his tone sending shivers down Sarah’s spine. Panic set in, and she pushed past the guard, desperate to break free.

The guard’s response was swift and brutal. With a violent shove, he pushed Sarah back into the room, causing her to stumble and fall to the ground. The room erupted into chaos as other employees witnessed the altercation, shock and fear written on their faces.

Sarah’s heart raced as she struggled to regain her composure, the realization sinking in that she was trapped in a situation beyond her control. The once-familiar walls of Nickelodeon Germany now felt like a prison, and the sense of powerlessness gnawed at her spirit.

As she looked around at her colleagues, some resigned to their fate and others seething with anger, Sarah felt a surge of defiance. She refused to be held captive in a situation not of her making. Gathering her courage, she stood tall and spoke out against the injustice and aggression.

The tension in the room escalated as emotions ran high, but Sarah’s voice echoed with determination and resilience. She refused to be silenced, her words a beacon of hope amidst the turmoil.

In the end, the security guard’s actions were condemned, and measures were taken to address the situation. Sarah’s courage and determination to stand up against injustice inspired others to do the same, turning a moment of fear and aggression into a catalyst for change.

As she walked out of the room, the weight of the day’s events still heavy on her shoulders, Sarah knew that the road ahead would be challenging. But she also knew that she had the strength and resilience to face whatever came her way, and that no amount of confinement could suppress her spirit.

And as she stepped out into the world beyond Nickelodeon Germany, a sense of liberation washed over her, turning a moment of captivity into a triumph of courage and conviction.
Write a follow up where staff from other Nicks share condolences to them, and say it’s Viacom’s fault, and one Nick's staff especially gives condolences