"Armin Mueller-Stehl compares mastery in Hollywood to that in the German Democratic Republic (GDR)"
Berlin's New Dawn: Berliner Zeitung Celebrates 80th Anniversary
May 21, 1945 saw the publication of the first edition of the Berliner Zeitung, marking the beginning of a new era for the city, now celebrating its 80th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, a special edition was released over the weekend of May 24/25. The complete texts of the special edition can be found online. Readers interested in subscribing to the Berliner Zeitung can do so here.
Reflecting on the Present and Past
German actor Armin Mueller-Stahl shared his thoughts on the present and the wars of our time, having experienced the Second World War. Born in Tilsit, which is now called Sowetsk, Russia, Mueller-Stahl expressed his hopes for an end to the senseless conflicts, particularly in Ukraine, although he is uncertain if the immense force driving the redevelopment of the old Soviet Union can be halted.
Memories of Childhood and a Parting Tribute
Mueller-Stahl also fondly remembered his childhood in Tilsit, where he was later made an honorary citizen in 2011 at a celebration featuring great musicians. He also reflected on the impact of his grandfather, pastor in Tilsit, whose church tower had been admired by Napoleon, and the memories associated with the Memel Bridge.
A Career of Resilience and Adaptation
In a separate interview, Mueller-Stahl spoke about his experiences leaving the GDR, encountering unprofessionalism in the Federal Republic, and finding a rapport with actors in Hollywood that mirrored his time in the GDR. The actor recounted his initial struggles in the West, including being threatened with being dropped by a producer. Nevertheless, he found success and acclaim in both Germany and Hollywood.
The Berliner Zeitung Marks Its Anniversary with Critical Dialogues
Apart from Armin Mueller-Stahl's reflections, the Berliner Zeitung also published special articles from its editor-in-chief, Jenny Erpenbeck, and Egon Krenz, discussing the importance of critical journalism and the peaceful revolution, respectively. Other pieces in the anniversary edition featured recollections of the Second World War, German-Russian history, and the experiences of key figures in the city's past and present.
Armin Mueller-Stahl, in his career that spans both East and West, discussed his experiences in the entertainment industry, including the challenges he faced when transitioning from the GDR to Hollywood. Despite initial hardships, he achieved success and acclaim as a celebrity.
As a renowned celebrity, Mueller-Stahl shared his perspectives on the present, expressing hopes for an end to conflicts like those in Ukraine, while also reflecting on his past, including his childhood in Tilsit and the influence of his grandfather, a pastor there.
%22){kind=link}