"I've been single since 2000," explains "Lindenstrasse" star Andrea Spatzek. She has not yet given up hope for a new love.
What would "Lindenstrasse" have been without Andrea Spatzek (61)? The actress was part of the popular cult series from the beginning and has played herself in the hearts of millions as Gabi Zenker. While she even celebrated a silver wedding with serial husband Andy Zenker (Jo Bolling), she never stepped in front of the altar away from the television cameras.
In fact, the 61-year-old mother of one son has been single for almost 20 years. "I can live very well alone. But that doesn't mean that I wouldn't be happy about a relationship," said the actress on the sidelines of the Facebook live event "Single, 50+ is looking for …" Zweisam.de platform of course. In an interview she reveals what her dream man should look like and how her career will continue after the end of "Lindenstrasse".
How many years have you been single yourself?
Andrea Spatzek: I've been single since 2000. I've had short relationships since then, but it never got really serious. I would say that I can also get along very well on my own. I'm in the middle of life and have a great son and lots of friends. But that doesn't mean that I wouldn't be happy about a relationship. The feeling of being freshly in love is one of the most beautiful things in life. That is also one of the reasons why I am at the event today. I'm still curious about what's out there waiting for me.
Many women over the age of 50 have long since given up hope of finding a new partner, is that how you feel?
Spatzek: Let me put it this way, expectations rise and market value falls. I've settled in and I like it the way it is. A new partner just has to suit me and my lifestyle – but hope dies last. When I get to know someone who enriches me, then that's wonderful. I don't want to bend myself.
Are you a relationship person or do you also see the advantages of being single?
Spatzek: I can live very well on my own, I can do what I want. But when you have a partner with whom you can do a lot together, that's nice too. That's why I stated exactly what is important to me on my online dating profile. I also only filter out men who have the same interests as me. Right now, in times of Corona, I sometimes have someone by my side.
Have you tried online dating before?
Spatzek: Once in the past. At the time, however, I wasn't immediately convinced and finished it pretty quickly. Currently I have been working on Zweisam.de in preparation for the event and have just registered. I'm curious how it goes this time.
What does a man have to bring with him for you, visually and in character?
Spatzek: I would say he should have a normal stature. Not too slim, but still sporty. Ideally he likes golf. In terms of character, humor is very important to me. I also like confident but not arrogant men. A plus point is if it is also musical. And very important: non-smokers!
Do you have quirks that a man has to deal with?
Spatzek: A potential candidate has to find that out for himself (laughs). I want us to get to know each other first.
A young man at the side of a mature woman is no longer uncommon, is that also an option for you?
Spatzek: If love is honest, why not. I just don't want to be exploited and deceived. Most of the time it's the other way around. So I think the idea of having our own dating platform for people over 50 is great. The man can still be 10 years younger (laughs)
What makes a good, functioning relationship for you?
Spatzek: I think it's important to be able to talk to each other a lot. In general about everyday life and life, but also on more difficult topics. My future partner should call things by their names. I also think it's important to give yourself and your partner space. I don't want to be chained to my partner and only exist as a duo.
Could you imagine getting married at some point?
Spatzek: I could imagine that, but it's not my lifelong dream.
Professionally, everything revolved around "Lindenstrasse" for decades. How have you fared after the cult series ended?
Spatzek: After leaving "Lindenstrasse" I wanted to start right away at the theater – but then Corona came. For me it was a forced break, so to speak. Now I've only been playing theater since September and hope that things will continue in a corona-wise manner.
Do you miss being in front of the camera as Gabi Zenker?
Spatzek: Of course. "Lindenstrasse" was my home and my colleagues were like a second family. But what is coming now is also beautiful. I look forward to the new projects, experiences and people I will get to know. Changes always mean a lot of new things.
Are you still in contact with your ex-colleagues?
Spatzek: Definitely! However, due to the current situation at the moment more by phone.
Which professional projects are you planning, will you soon be on TV again?
Spatzek: I really hope so. I have a new agency and we definitely want to realize a couple of exciting projects together. However, at the moment everything is a bit more difficult due to Corona.