Renowned Television Actress, Iris Berben, at the age of 75.
Iris Berben, the acclaimed German actress, turns 75 today. Known for her extensive career in film and television since the late 1960s, Berben has been recognized not only for her artistic achievements but also for her personal commitment to political and social causes.
A Life of Resilience
Born in 1950 in Germany, Berben's journey has been marked by resilience. She was expelled from school multiple times and drove without a driver's license for a while [1]. Despite these challenges, Berben has found a way to navigate life with grace and determination.
Personal Insights
Berben has a long-term partner, Gabriel Lewy, and they have appeared together at significant events such as the Golden Camera awards and the Bavarian State Parliament, where Berben was honored with the Constitutional Medal for her active commitment to the values of the Bavarian Constitution [1].
A Career of Distinction
Berben's career includes a variety of roles in German cinema and television. She continues to be involved in major productions; for instance, she is part of the cast of the recent miniseries "German House," an adaptation of a bestselling novel dealing with Germany’s historical reckoning [2]. Her enduring presence in the industry and participation in prominent projects illustrate her continued relevance and acclaim.
Political Stances
Beyond acting, Iris Berben is known for her political engagement. She has publicly committed herself to democratic values and has been honored for this activism, such as receiving the Constitutional Medal in Bavaria [1]. Berben is known for her advocacy on social issues and her opposition to extremism in Germany.
A Connection with Portugal and the SPD
Berben has a connection with Portugal and has been engaged with the SPD [3]. Her political stances and activism have made her a prominent figure in German cultural life.
A Love for Life and Current Events
Berben expresses a strong interest in current events, stating she is "almost manic about watching the news" [4]. This passion for life and curiosity is evident in her roles, whether it's in comedies like "Der Spitzname" or in the international film "Triangle of Sadness," where she plays a woman who can only say "In the clouds" and "No" after a stroke [5].
A Commitment to Israel and Fighting Anti-Semitism
Berben has a deep connection with Israel, having visited the country after the Six-Day War in 1967 and falling in love with the country and its people [6]. She has been awarded the Leo Baeck Prize by the Central Council of Jews and served as president of the German Film Academy for almost ten years [7]. Berben is committed to fighting against anti-Semitism.
A Preference for Engaging with Life
Despite societal expectations, Berben prefers to engage with life rather than isolate herself as an actress [8]. This approach to life has allowed her to maintain a youthful appearance, which sometimes annoys her [9].
A Fondness for Simple Pleasures
Berben enjoys cooking, laughing, and writing letters by hand with a fountain pen [1, 4]. These simple pleasures are a testament to her down-to-earth personality and her ability to find joy in the ordinary.
In summary, Iris Berben is celebrated both for her distinguished career as an actress and for her active role in supporting democratic and social values in Germany. Her contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards, and she continues to be a prominent figure in German cultural life.
[1] Bayerische Staatszeitung [2] SWR [3] Tagesschau [4] Deutschlandfunk Kultur [5] Triangle of Sadness [6] Iris Berben's official website [7] Leo Baeck Prize [8] Deutschlandfunk Kultur [9] Deutschlandfunk Kultur
- Iris Berben, in her 75th year, has led a life that extends beyond her acclaimed career in film and television, as she also prioritizes personal relationships, such as her long-term partnership with Gabriel Lewy, and remains committed to political activities and social causes.
- As a celebrity, Iris Berben continues to captivate audiences through her various roles while maintaining a genuine interest in current events, whether it be through her passion for news or her involvement in social issues, such as her staunch opposition to extremism and anti-Semitism.
