RTL Reporter Burkhard Kress Receives German Television Award in Emotional Farewell – A Story of Courage and Hope
Berlin, Germany – September 10, 2025 – In a deeply moving moment for German television, RTL reporter Burkhard Kress has been awarded the prestigious German Television Award in the “Best Moderation / Individual Information” category. The honor comes just five days after his retirement and amidst a profoundly personal journey with cancer, making the recognition all the more poignant. This is breaking news that resonates far beyond the entertainment world, touching on themes of loss, resilience, and the power of sharing personal stories.
From Heartbreak to Hope: Kress’s Unflinching Reportage
Kress’s winning reportage, “Extra Special: Cancer – why my diagnosis can change your life,” is a raw and honest account of his battle with stomach cancer. The diagnosis followed the devastating loss of his 30-year-old son, Damian, to a rare form of the disease in 2023. Doctors discovered a genetic predisposition – a change in a gene inherited by both father and daughter – that significantly increased their risk. The reportage doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of cancer, but instead offers a beacon of hope and a call for proactive health awareness.
A Family’s Fight: Genetic Predisposition and Preventative Measures
What makes this story particularly compelling is the parallel journey of Kress’s daughter, Sarah. After learning of her own genetic predisposition, Sarah opted for a preventative total stomach removal. Today, both father and daughter are cancer-free, living life without stomachs but with a renewed appreciation for every moment. This highlights the growing importance of genetic testing and preventative healthcare, a topic gaining increasing attention in medical circles. Understanding your family history and potential genetic risks is becoming increasingly crucial for early detection and intervention.
“A Farewell Gift”: Kress’s Emotional Acceptance Speech
Visibly moved, Kress accepted the award, calling it “a great farewell gift.” He expressed gratitude to his long-time colleagues at RTL for their support throughout the difficult process. “Of course, this price is also a bitter sweet somewhere, but I’m very, very happy,” he shared. His words underscore the emotional weight of the award, acknowledging both the joy of recognition and the lingering pain of loss. Kress’s willingness to share his story so openly has undoubtedly touched countless viewers and sparked important conversations about cancer and grief.
The Power of Personal Storytelling in Journalism – and its SEO Impact
Kress’s reportage exemplifies the growing trend of personal storytelling in journalism. Audiences are increasingly drawn to authentic narratives that connect on an emotional level. This shift also has implications for SEO; content that resonates with readers is more likely to be shared and linked to, boosting its search engine ranking. The story’s focus on cancer, genetic testing, and family resilience also taps into high-demand search terms, making it particularly well-suited for Google News indexing. This is a prime example of how impactful journalism can also be strategically optimized for online visibility.
Watch the Reportage & Find Strength
For those seeking inspiration and information, “Extra Special: Cancer – why my diagnosis can change your life” is available for streaming. RTL also offers a companion piece, “What RTL reporter Burkhard Kress now gives strength – ‘You keep me alive’,” providing further insight into his journey and sources of resilience.
Burkhard Kress’s story is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome unimaginable adversity. It’s a reminder that even in the face of profound loss and personal challenges, hope and healing are possible. His legacy extends beyond his distinguished career in journalism; it’s a legacy of courage, honesty, and unwavering determination.
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