Deceased mother: Stefanie Hertel moderates for Stefan Mross
Stefanie Hertel moderated “Always on Sundays” from Rust on August 24, 2025, while Stefan Mross mourns his late mother.

Deceased mother: Stefanie Hertel moderates for Stefan Mross
On August 24, 2025, the stay at Europa-Park in Rust was anything but usual for the viewers of “Always on Sundays”. The presenter Stefan Mross was unable to host the show for family reasons as he was mourning his recently deceased mother. This news deeply touched the fans of the popular ARD show and shaped the program. In his absence, his ex-wife Stefanie Hertel took over the moderation and provided a worthy setting with emotional words.
Stefanie Hertel, who has been working in show business for many years and is celebrating her 40th television anniversary this year, opened the live broadcast with a heartfelt message. “Thoughts are very, very much with you,” she turned to Mross and let it be known how much the situation was weighing on her too. It was even Mross' wish that Hertel take over the moderation, which shows that the relationship between the two remains respectful and friendly after their separation in 2011. Stefanie Hertel was supported in this special edition by the singer Uta Bresan, who also showed sympathy and supported the audience.
A serious loss
The mourning for Stefan Mross' mother, who died at the age of 85, came as a surprise to many. The former nurse most recently lived in a retirement home and suffered from dementia. Mross had given her professional care due to her illness, a step that must not have been easy. Closely linked to these memories is the loss of Mross' mother's husband, Eberhard Mross, who died of cancer in 2010 at the age of 68. A heartbreak that is now burdening the family again.
Hertel explained at the beginning of the program that this edition was special for family reasons. “We are thinking of you, Stefan,” she said, making it clear how important solidarity is in difficult times. The viewers in Rust, who regularly attend the broadcasts in Europa-Park, were affected and supported Hertel and the entire team with lots of applause.
A review and an outlook
As usual, the show appealed to an audience of millions and promises some highlights in the current season. Given the emotional content, it remains to be seen whether Stefan Mross will return by the season finale on August 31st. This final live broadcast will perhaps be a fitting tribute to the achievements of the presenters and artists who have delighted audiences over the years.
Stefanie Hertel announced in her Instagram story that she intervened immediately when she found out about the circumstances. “I just wanted to help,” said the 46-year-old, courageously following in her ex-husband’s footsteps. It remains to be hoped that the broadcaster and the fans can support the grieving Mross during this difficult time.
The coming days could be crucial for Mross and his family. We don't want to lose hope that the “Always on Sundays” team will continue to stick together to entertain viewers and give them strength in difficult times.