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StarDance hosts hint at Czech TV fee law in live broadcast

StarDance hosts hint at politics on air, though the show is meant to be apolitical
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Marek Eben and Tereza Kostková, the hosts of Czech Television's StarDance, commented on the funding of public media in a live broadcast, using hints. Early on the day of the show, the Chamber of Deputies approved in first reading a bill changing that funding, and the third evening of the competition took place about 15 hours after the vote.

Eben began: “You probably expect some serious political statement from us. We would love to, but frankly, we are not dressed for it.” He was referring to the fairy-tale theme of the episode. Then he added: “We believe good will win and the devil will take all the wicked ones.” The audience responded with long applause, after which the host continued: “That is how it will end — maybe not right away, but one day for sure.”

Kostková backed up her colleague. In her words, symbolism can be more powerful than anything else: the applause of the hall, kind words and the fact that she is wearing green today, the color of hope. She pointed to her outfit as she said it.

High expectations of the show were no coincidence. According to available information, pressure was put on everyone taking part in the evening in front of the cameras from various sides. The license for the program, which Czech Television bought from Britain's BBC, rules out “political agitation, displays of political symbols and use of the live broadcast for political proclamations” by contestants or hosts.

On behalf of Czech Television, the show's coordinator Josef Ducký said that StarDance has long been an apolitical program that tries to thank viewers for their support in every live broadcast, not only its own audience but all Czech Television viewers.

Around Prague, based on reporting by seznamzpravy.cz

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