Switching sides? Ex-chief of RTL would lead govʼt-friendly TV2
Dirk Gerkens, who oversaw news coverage that was critical of the government as CEO of Hungarian TV channel RTL Klub, would take charge of TV2, a channel that is expected to be government friendly if it is owned by Andrew G. Vajna, the government commissioner for the Hungarian film industry, online daily origo.hu reported today.
According to origo.hu, the rumor was confirmed by both Gerkens and Vajna. Early today Vajna, who made his name producing Hollywood films, was confirmed as the buyer of TV2 Group, which consists of four television channels.
In a surprise twist, a report later this evening put Vanjaʼs purchase into question.
RTL Klub and TV2 are the two biggest competitors among commercial channels in Hungary. Gerkens left RTL Klub in March after speculation earlier this year that RTL Group might agree to replace Gerkens if the government agreed to lower the advertising tax.
The government later proposed a new, lower tax, and RTL Group also announced that Gerkens would be assigned to a position outside of Hungary, but both the government and the TV station denied that a deal was made.
Under Gerkens’ leadership since 2001, RTL became the leading TV channel in Hungary. Gerkens was supposed to continue to work for German RTL Group in a senior executive position, according to reports in March.
Gov't Awards Over HUF 20 bln of Home Solar Panel Subsidies
Bulgaria's Household Income, Spending Rise 20% in 2023
Baranya County Police Bust Phishing Gang
Spago Budapest Offering Unique Sunday Brunch Experience
SUPPORT THE BUDAPEST BUSINESS JOURNAL
Producing journalism that is worthy of the name is a costly business. For 27 years, the publishers, editors and reporters of the Budapest Business Journal have striven to bring you business news that works, information that you can trust, that is factual, accurate and presented without fear or favor.
Newspaper organizations across the globe have struggled to find a business model that allows them to continue to excel, without compromising their ability to perform. Most recently, some have experimented with the idea of involving their most important stakeholders, their readers.
We would like to offer that same opportunity to our readers. We would like to invite you to help us deliver the quality business journalism you require. Hit our Support the BBJ button and you can choose the how much and how often you send us your contributions.
