Defendants boast lineage through descendants, while accused faces court proceedings - "Instead of others enjoying their grandchildren, I find myself imposing judgement"
Barbara Salesch, the famed German TV judge, is making waves in her golden years. At 75, she's taken her throne from the daytime courtroom to the prime time spotlight. On June 10, RTL will air the 90-minute special, "Barbara Salesch: The Dead Woman in the Rhine". The show marks a significant departure from her usual afternoon courtroom dramas, diving into the world of television crime with a gripping murder mystery.
Since returning to television in 2022 after a decade-long break, Salesch has been more present than ever. Known for making court shows big in Germany, she speaks on her unbroken curiosity, her preference for the court over grandchildren, and what pushes her to start anew at 75.
How did you ring in your 75th birthday?
Barbara Salesch: It was a blast! We celebrated a lot, but in smaller groups because I was working. In the summer, we will have a big bash in my garden.
The spotlight's on you now more than ever - how does that feel?
Salesch: It feels amazing. This newfound presence has led to our venture into primetime. It's a different game, for sure. Normally, we shoot three of our afternoon cases in a day. Now, we've filmed a single movie – a blend of crime and court – requiring numerous shooting days, resulting in much more to show than usual.
How closely does the film mirror your actual judicial workday?
Salesch: We aim for authenticity. In the evening show, we sum up a six-day main trial in 90 minutes, unveiling the intricacies of the investigation, negotiation breaks, manipulation, and attempts to exploit others' suffering for profit. It's quite thrilling.
What about the production process excited you most?
Salesch: Several things stood out. The actors' performances were impressive. While acting is second nature to me, it's a different ball game when portraying strangers. The technology amazed me – cranes zooming in, cameras swirling everywhere. And when I had to say the same thing five times for each shot? Tough, but worth it.
Why do court shows still have an audience today?
Salesch: Authentic casting plays a role here. Actresses and actors can easily slip into the judge's role, but I don't have to. My script revisions ensure a real glimpse into my work, making the format more engaging for the viewers.
What keeps the format exciting for you personally?
Salesch: I love my job. It introduces different aspects, connections, and solutions. I appreciate the new evidence available now – videos, surveillance cameras, photographs – that we always manage to obtain during the trial. The job never bores me. Others have grandchildren, I have court.
Looking back on your early days in television 25 years ago, what's changed?
Salesch: It was challenging at times 25 years ago. After over 12 years and more than 2500 shows, I simply had enough. I retired to my farm, workshops, gallery, and dog, spending quieter days. Now, I'm back in television, and though there's more going on, I feel good about it. Working with younger people is a joy.
Are you still able to make time for your art?
Salesch: Not as much now. I manage to have one exhibition a year, though.
Why did you choose law, often perceived as dry, as a creative person?
Salesch: I find that reputation misguided. Law is far from dry. While some professors may be a bit dry, it's all about presentation. Law offers exciting, intellectual challenges. However, lawyers are often notorious for their incomprehensible jargon, which I have always avoided.
What led you from the real courtroom to the television studio?
Salesch: I spent 20 years in Hamburg – I had accomplished everything I wanted. At 49, I was offered a chance in television. I seized it, not expecting it to last this long or that I'd return to television.
Have you ever regretted that decision?
Salesch: Not once. I've never regretted becoming a real judge or making the switch to television. Both are extraordinary professions that complement each other well.
What fuels your continuing drive?
Salesch: Curiosity. Success. I jumped at the chance to create a sophisticated primetime film. I'm passionate about keeping the shows fresh and utilizing new evidence. And maybe just one more thing: I've always loved my job.
Moving forward, what's next for Barbara Salesch?
Salesch: I prefer to look ahead, not back – so I'll take the fourth one. My fourth life has the benefits of my second, but without the overwhelm. I'm back in top shape and plan to outlast everyone, as long as I can sit and avoid running or climbing stairs, which can be a challenge on camera.
Is there anything you hope for in the future?
Salesch: I wish for good health, a sound mind, and the ability to keep up. Age brings humility – you realize that you can't outrun everyone. But I hope to keep up.
Barbara Salesch's 75th birthday was celebrated in a series of smaller gatherings as she continued to work, with a larger event planned for the summer in her garden. The Court of Justice of the European Communities member found herself in the limelight more than ever before, leading to the creation of her primetime crime movie, "Barbara Salesch: The Dead Woman in the Rhine."
Despite the shift from daytime courtroom dramas to a primetime crime mystery, Barbara Salesch remains committed to maintaining authenticity in her work, drawing on her real-life experiences as a judge to engage viewers. With an impressive cast of actors and state-of-the-art technology, the production process of her new film was full of excitement and challenge, stretching her acting abilities beyond what she had previously attempted.
