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Jürgen Thebrath, fearless German investigative journalist, dies at 78

From food safety scandals to political accountability, his reporting changed laws and lives. How one journalist’s courage left an indelible mark on Germany.

In this image I can see the food in the paper-cone. I can see the metal object around the food. I...
In this image I can see the food in the paper-cone. I can see the metal object around the food. I can see the blurred background.

Mourning TV Journalist Jürgen Thebrath - Jürgen Thebrath, fearless German investigative journalist, dies at 78

Veteran German journalist Jürgen Thebrath, renowned for his investigative reporting and commitment to accountability, has passed away at the age of 78. Thebrath's work, spanning over two decades, left a significant impact on German society and journalism.

Thebrath began his career at ARD's investigative magazine Monitor in 1985, where he served as an editor until 1991. His groundbreaking report on worm larvae contamination in fresh herring exposed one of Germany's biggest food scandals in 1987. The revelation led to a 25% drop in fish consumption in West Germany over four months and prompted lawmakers to tighten hygiene regulations for the fishing industry.

Later, Thebrath led ARD's foreign bureaus in New York and Brussels, focusing on international politics, transatlantic relations, and European Union affairs. His dedication to holding power accountable was praised by WDR Program Director Jörg Schönenborn. Thebrath's commitment to journalism was further recognised with two Grimme Prizes, one of Germany's most prestigious media awards.

Thebrath retired in 2011 after serving as deputy editor-in-chief for television programming. His legacy as an investigative journalist who fearlessly exposed wrongdoings and influenced policy change will continue to inspire future generations of journalists in Germany and beyond.

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