Michael Wendler causes another scandal: Sold-out comeback despite shitstorm!

After his mega-controversial statements during and after the Corona pandemic and a real break with many of his business partners, one might have thought Wendler was finished. But not at all! At the end of May, he celebrated a sold-out comeback in Bochum. And that's just the beginning, as more concerts are already announced.
Why Tempers Are Flaring
The planned performances of the pop singer are facing sharp criticism. Industry colleagues like Ikke Hüftgold are clearly demanding: No more stage for Wendler! His words are clear: "An enemy of democracy like Wendler does not belong on any stage in Germany." The concert at the Prater in Bochum also caused a shitstorm on social media. Users ranted that it was "just embarrassing to give this guy a stage." The venue itself has already distanced itself from his statements.
Despite Everything: The Stages Are Calling!
But the controversy doesn't seem to stop him. The comeback concert was apparently a complete success, with sold-out tickets and long lines at the door. Tickets are even still available for his upcoming shows. Here are the dates still scheduled for 2025:
- 20. Juni: Datteln, Festzelt (Schützenfest)
- 6. September: Oberhausen, Rudolf-Weber-Arena
Eventim Joins In: The Big Question of Tickets
The Rudolf-Weber-Arena has distanced itself from Wendler's statements in terms of content, but he is still allowed to perform there. The big question remains: Why does a giant like Eventim even sell tickets for his events? We inquired and the answer is... interesting.
The Surprising Explanation from Eventim
Eventim takes a clear stance: They condemn any form of discrimination, hate and violence, hostility towards people, extremism, and disinformation. They advocate for freedom, democracy, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. So far, so good. But here comes the twist: The company also sees itself as a "champion of the freedom of art enshrined in the Basic Law."
What Does This Mean for Artistic Freedom?
Eventim explains that within the framework of what is legal, they do not make decisions about ideology, culture, or aesthetics. They acknowledge that this tension between artistic freedom and their own values "can be painful and repeatedly provides grounds for controversial discussions." It is a dilemma that raises many questions.
The Legal Perspective on the Wendler Saga
Legally speaking, there have already been consequences for Michael Wendler: In 2025, he was fined 15,000 euros for aiding in the obstruction of an enforcement. His crude statements during and after the Corona pandemic, including comparing Corona measures to a "KZ" (where he allegedly meant "crisis center" and not "concentration camp"), have so far remained without legal consequences. A scandal that only fuels the debate about his performances!
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.