The Woman Who Changed German Comedy - The Woman Who Changed German Comedy
Anke Engelke has been a defining figure in German comedy for decades. Born in Montreal in 1965, she moved to Germany as a child and later abandoned her teaching studies to enter entertainment. Her sharp wit and versatility have made her a household name.
Engelke’s career took off in the 1990s when she joined Wochenshow, the popular Sat.1 sketch programme. This role opened doors to other hit formats like Ladykracher, Merry Christmas, and Perfectly Missed. Beyond comedy, she proved her dramatic range in series such as Deutschland 86 and Deutsches Haus.
Her long-standing creative partnerships have been key to her success. She frequently collaborates with Bastian Pastewka, while Tommy Krappweis has been another trusted ally in comedy projects. Despite her fame, Engelke avoids the spotlight in her private life, shunning social media and keeping details about her two marriages and three children—now aged 15, 19, and 28—out of public view.
Beyond entertainment, Engelke is active in social causes. She supports climate protection, campaigns against malaria, and advocates for human rights.
Engelke’s influence on German comedy remains unmatched. From sketch shows to serious acting, her work spans genres and generations. While she stays private, her professional impact and activism continue to resonate.
