Autumn for Debate Culture: 'Leave the Short Fuse at Home' - Christoph Maria Herbst slams Germany’s divisive meat debate as ‘absurd’
Actor Christoph Maria Herbst has spoken out against Germany’s polarised debate culture, calling for more nuance in discussions about meat consumption. The 59-year-old, known for his roles in film and television, shared his views while promoting his latest project, Extra Sausage, released on January 15, 2026.
Herbst, who mostly avoids meat himself, criticised the extreme positions in the vegetarianism debate. He dismissed outright bans on meat as unrealistic, adding that the opposite stance—‘Life without sausage is possible, but pointless’—was equally absurd. Instead, he argued for a balanced approach, noting that those who eat little or no meat do more for the planet than frequent meat-eaters.
In the film Extra Sausage, Herbst appears alongside Hape Kerkeling in a guessing game with club members. While details about his specific role remain unclear, the project aligns with his public commentary on societal issues. Beyond the film, he has repeatedly called for better listening and less defensiveness in public discussions. The actor expressed frustration with the current climate of rigid opinions. He longed for ‘refreshing shades of gray’ rather than the simplistic ‘thumbs up or thumbs down’ mentality dominating many debates.
Herbst’s comments highlight a push for more thoughtful dialogue on contentious topics. His latest film, Extra Sausage, arrives as he continues to advocate for moderation in both diet and discussion. The actor’s stance reflects a broader call for less division in public conversations.
