Why Watch
"Razor-sharp investigative political satire dismantling complex systemic absurdities with unapologetic wit, precision journalism, and brilliant theatrical staging."
Tone: Cerebral, Incisive, Satirical Cabaret
AI Critic Analysis
Series Deep Dive:
As Germany's gold standard of political satire, Die Anstalt consistently dissects convoluted socioeconomic crises with journalistic rigor. Following the conclusion of the 2026 run on ZDF, the series leaves audiences navigating pressing political debates. Hosts Max Uthoff and Claus von Wagner transform bureaucratic dysfunction into potent live theater. As viewers await future broadcast schedules, the landmark cabaret remains essential viewing for those demanding intellect alongside their humor.
Analysis Refined:March 2026
Scheduled next refinement: in 225 days
Season: 2026
| Watched? | # | Air Date | Episode Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| E1 | Jan 30, 2026 | Die Prüf-Anstalt | |
| E2 | Feb 06, 2026 | Die Renten-Anstalt | |
| E3 | Feb 17, 2026 | Die Krankstalt | |
| E4 | Mar 17, 2026 | Die IRANstalt 2 | |
| E5 | Apr 28, 2026 | Die Prostitutionsanstalt | |
| E6 | Jun 02, 2026 | Die Energie-Anstalt | |
| E7 | Jul 21, 2026 | Die AntifAnstalt 100 | |
| E8 | Oct 06, 2026 | Die Anstalt – Jetzt erst rechts! |
Scheduling Insights - Seasonal Series
Release Window: February
Die Anstalt has maintained a steady annual rhythm for 12 years, typically returning in February. As the direct successor to Neues aus der Anstalt, the program has anchored ZDF’s late-night Tuesday lineup since its 2014 debut, delivering roughly eight to ten episodes per year. The broadcast schedule follows a consistent monthly release pattern that begins in the first quarter, pauses for a traditional summer hiatus after May or June, and resumes in the autumn to conclude its yearly run by December.
Throughout its history, the show has functioned as a reliable network cornerstone, prioritizing topical relevance over high-volume production. By airing approximately once per month, it allows the creative team to deconstruct complex geopolitical and social issues with deep investigative rigor. This deliberate pacing has ensured its longevity on the German public broadcaster, reaching a significant milestone of 100 episodes in 2026 while remaining a fixture of the winter and spring television seasons.
Oracle Insights Refined:March 2026
Scheduled next refinement: in 279 days
If you liked Die Anstalt:
Frequently Asked Questions
Die Anstalt typically begins its annual broadcasting cycle in late January or early February following a brief winter hiatus. This early-year start marks the beginning of approximately eight episodes that are scheduled periodically throughout the calendar year.
As a flagship political cabaret program for ZDF, Die Anstalt remains a permanent fixture in the network's lineup and is currently airing its 2026 schedule. Formal renewal for the following year is generally assumed by the network given the show's consistent ratings and critical importance in German public broadcasting.
Each annual season of Die Anstalt usually consists of eight episodes, which are broadcast roughly once a month. The production schedule includes planned breaks during the summer months and the December holiday period to allow for topical research and script development.
The series follows a unique year-round monthly format rather than a traditional US-style seasonal window, though it effectively functions as a mid-season premiere with new episodes arriving in the first quarter. The second half of its annual run typically resumes in late summer or early fall after a seasonal hiatus.
Current episodes are available for streaming on the ZDFmediathek platform immediately after their television broadcast on ZDF. Additionally, many segments and full episodes are archived on the network's official YouTube channel for international audiences.
Max Uthoff and Claus von Wagner continue to lead the program as the primary hosts and creative directors for the 2026 season. They are joined in every episode by a rotating cast of guest satirists and cabaret artists who contribute to the show's investigative comedy format.
FAQ Refined:March 2026
Scheduled next refinement: in 17 days