Günther Jauch to Host Tenth ‘Wer wird Millionär?’ 3-Million-Euro Week
Hürth, 10 January 2026 – Germany’s beloved quiz show ‘Wer wird Millionär?’, hosted by Günther Jauch, returns with its tenth special 3-Million-Euro Week starting on 12 January 2026. Contestants compete for a record €3 million prize, with four nights of qualifying rounds leading to a grand finale on Friday. Based on the British format ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?’, the show has captivated audiences since 1999, blending knowledge, strategy, and suspense in a live studio setting.
The 3-Million-Euro Week Special
The 3-Million-Euro Week, airing on RTL, features a modified payout structure where the top prize triples to €3 million. Over four evenings, candidates qualify through rapid-fire questions, with the fastest advancing to the final. Günther Jauch, known for his witty banter and ability to build tension, guides participants through 15 multiple-choice questions. Lifelines include the 50:50 Joker, audience vote, and phone-a-friend. Since 2007, a fourth ‘Zusatzjoker’ allows consulting a studio audience member for €500, forfeiting the €16,000 safety net. The show is recorded in EMG Germany’s studio in Hürth near Cologne, accommodating 215 spectators.
History and Popularity of ‘Wer wird Millionär?’
Launched on 3 September 1999, ‘Wer wird Millionär?’ quickly became RTL’s flagship programme, drawing millions of viewers weekly. Günther Jauch, a journalist and producer, has hosted every episode, earning numerous awards including the German Television Prize. The show’s appeal lies in its simple yet thrilling format: contestants answer progressively harder questions for escalating prizes, with lifelines adding drama. Special editions, such as celebrity specials or themed weeks, boost ratings. Notable winners include Eckhard Freise (first millionaire in 2000) and Ralf Schnoor (2010). The programme has adapted over time, incorporating viewer participation and charity elements, reflecting German TV’s blend of entertainment and education.
Key Facts / Stats
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Host | Günther Jauch (since 1999) |
| Top Prize (Regular) | €1 million |
| Top Prize (3-Million-Euro Week) | €3 million |
| Safety Nets | €500 at question 5, €16,000 at question 10 (unless fourth lifeline used) |
| Lifelines | 50:50, Audience Joker, Phone Joker; optional fourth (Zusatzjoker) since 2007 |
| Studio Location | Hürth near Cologne, Germany |
| Notable Winners | Eckhard Freise (2000), Ralf Schnoor (2010), Ronald Tenholte (2020) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 3-Million-Euro Week differ from regular episodes?
In this special week, candidates qualify over four nights, and the final prize pool reaches €3 million, shared among top performers. It adds extra excitement with higher stakes and a competitive qualifying phase.
What are the lifelines in ‘Wer wird Millionär?’?
Contestants have three standard lifelines: 50:50 (removes two wrong answers), Audience Joker (studio vote), and Phone Joker (call a friend). Since 2007, a fourth optional lifeline lets them ask an audience member for €500, but forfeits the €16,000 safety net.
Who has won the top prize?
Several contestants have claimed €1 million, including Eckhard Freise in 2000, Gerhard Krammer in 2002, and Ralf Schnoor in 2010. No one has yet won the €3 million in the special weeks.