Otto Leisner

Otto Leisner was one of the first and most popular faces of Danish television, for decades the preferred choice for evening entertainment. He grew up in Amager and worked various jobs before attending university. When he failed an exam in law school he applied for a job with Danish radio, where he started work in 1945, eventually hosting popular programmes such as request show "Giro 413". His television breakthrough was the popular music show "Pladeparade", which featured playback performances by popular artists. Later successes include game shows "Fup eller fakta", "Den gyldne pil", "Tippejob" and the revival of "Kvit eller dobbelt" as well as light entertainment such as "Pusterummet" and "H.O.P.L.A.". Leisner's brand of television was sometimes criticized by those who wanted more fine arts or serious subjects in television, but his shows were among the most popular on offer. He retired from television in 1987, 70 years old and after 42 years with Denmark's public broadcaster, DR.