Maximilian “Max” Ratzenböck, a versatile actor, comedian, and podcaster based in Vienna, discusses his career journey and experiences in the entertainment industry. He reflects on his rise to fame through shows like “Wien – Tag & Nacht,” his time in Cologne, and his viral videos during the 2014 World Cup. A football enthusiast, he shares insights on the Austrian football scene and predicts Sturm Graz as the likely champion while reminiscing about his lower league playing days.
Meet Maximilian “Max” Ratzenböck: A Multifaceted Talent
Maximilian “Max” Ratzenböck is an accomplished actor, comedian, and podcaster who has called Vienna home since 2013. In a recent interview, the 33-year-old, who boasts 100,000 followers on Instagram, shares insights about his journey into acting, discusses his affiliation with SV Ried, and offers predictions for the upcoming Austrian football champion.
From Casting to Stardom
Good day, Mr. Ratzenböck. Can you clarify your primary profession?
I engage in a variety of projects, but I would say “actor” is the most fitting title for me.
Your rise to fame began with the television shows “Wien – Tag & Nacht” and “Köln 50667.” How did this opportunity arise?
In 2012, I was working at a tent event hosted by SV Riedau in Zell an der Pram. I left the event early to attend a casting in Munich the next day, which was a massive event with 8,000 participants. A few months later, I received an offer to join a daily soap opera.
Were you anxious before the audition?
I wasn’t scared, but I definitely felt nervous. Being inexperienced and going to Munich alone added to the pressure. It’s natural to feel a bit tense, but fortunately, it all worked out.
“Wien – Tag & Nacht” ended after 60 episodes, while similar German programs continue to thrive. What do you think contributed to this?
Ultimately, the viewership numbers in Austria were insufficient, and there were too many fluctuations in audience interest.
A Memorable Journey in Cologne
In 2014, you moved to Cologne for more opportunities. What was that experience like?
It was quite an exhilarating time! Some episodes garnered around a million viewers, which is remarkable. We even had fans in attendance during filming, making it a fantastic experience.
I remember filming a spontaneous video in a bathroom during a race, which went viral almost instantly. That was a memorable moment from my “Nachspielzeit” series with Marcel Hirscher.
However, your time there came to an end after two years.
Yes, my character’s storyline concluded, and the network informed me it was time to move on.
Were you upset about this change?
Not really, that’s just part of the entertainment industry. While I would have preferred to stay, shortly thereafter, I was invited to tour with “Nachspielzeit,” a cabaret show where my classic videos were just a fraction of the content.
You gained popularity for your viral videos during the 2014 World Cup, particularly your parody of Cristiano Ronaldo in Innviertler dialect. Were those scripts improvised or planned?
Everything was completely spontaneous! I didn’t limit myself to football; I also parodied Marcel Hirscher. The videos came together in the moment, and it was exciting to see them resonate with audiences.
Football Passion and Future Aspirations
From 2019 to 2024, you were part of “Die Abstauber,” a show on Sky that humorously recapped the football week. What stands out from that period?
It was a fantastic experience! We had a blast while interviewing many notable figures from Austrian football. I cherish the memories from that time, and we built a valuable network that has proven beneficial.
The show is now available as a podcast for “Kleine Zeitung.” As a football enthusiast and expert, who do you think will claim the title of Austrian champion?
While Rapid Vienna is having a strong season, I firmly believe that Sturm Graz will take the title.
And what about Ried?
Ried has made some impressive signings and has players in great form, like Grosse and Sollbauer. If they can regain their early-season dominance, they have a shot—assuming Admira doesn’t perform too strongly.
You also played football at SV Taufkirchen and SV Riedau. How was your experience in the lower leagues?
I played as a striker, and with SV Taufkirchen, we frequently aimed for promotion to the 1st class, but it never materialized during my time there. Ironically, the successful seasons came after I left! (laughs) When I joined Riedau, my schedule in 2013 left little room for football. However, in 2016/17, my player pass returned to Taufkirchen, and coach Josef Feichtinger encouraged me to play again. I would travel to Innviertel on weekends, and we ended up having the most successful season in the club’s history, finishing fourth in the district league.
Do you still keep up with football in the Innviertel lower leagues?
Of course! I check in on Taufkirchen and Riedau’s performances, though I don’t follow other leagues closely anymore. I think that’s pretty typical when you don’t make it home often.
As a final thought, where do you envision yourself in ten years?
I see myself living in the USA with my wife, who currently resides with me in Austria. However, I believe I will eventually return to Austria long-term.