"Charlie is the role of my life", Gabriele Metzger is happy about her comeback on "Verbotene Liebe".
What would "Forbidden Love" have been without Gabriele Metzger alias Charlie Schneider? She was there from the first episode and embodied the good soul of the series for 20 years. After the surprising end, the actress struggled with depression. "Today I have become more stable. I think everyone has phases in life," she explains in an interview with the news agency spot on news. From November 23rd, she will return to her parade role. With "Verbotene Liebe – Next Generation" ten new episodes of the popular Adelssoap can be seen on TVNow. "It's great to be able to play her again," says Metzger happily and gives a first foretaste of the long-awaited comeback.
Did you ever think that you could slip into the role of Charlie Schneider again?
Gabriele Metzger: Sometimes after the end of the old "Forbidden Love" at night, I dreamed that it would start all over again. Unfortunately, that was not the case for five years. To start again under such favorable omens was a great, joyful astonishment! Charlie has been with me for so many years, it's almost like a good friend, it's great to be able to play her again.
How did you react when you heard about the plans for the new edition?
Metzger: I actually thought about it for a moment, because saying goodbye after 20 years was very difficult for me. But then I was carried away by the cheerful spirit of optimism. And to this day I haven't regretted the decision to be part of the "Next Generation" for a second.
How was it for you to be back in front of the camera as Charlie?
Metzger: It was a little strange on the first day of shooting. But when I played the first scenes with Jo Weil, Charlie's nephew, it quickly became familiar again. We also have a long-standing friendship in private life. Right from the start we had a great shoot at the castle, a big celebration. That was the perfect debut.
How has Charlie been doing all this time?
Metzger: After separating from Helmke, her husband, she came to terms with being single and ultimately became friends. But it doesn't have to stay that way … She still knows the Düsseldorf Society inside out and her "Schneider" has now become even more sophisticated.
Has she changed?
Metzger: Charlie has grown a little more mature and gentle. But she has retained her unbroken zest for life.
Back then, like many fans, you were not enthusiastic about the twists and turns in the final "Forbidden Love" episodes. Do you agree to forgive the new episodes?
Metzger: I like the stories very much! Charlie is in the first season, let's say "the garnish on the cake", but it is slowly returning to its old best form. We shot a lot, in great locations and that makes a difference. And of course there is again this wonderful mixture of dramatic stories, dark secrets and great love stories.
How do the new episodes differ from the old ones?
Metzger: Everything looks higher quality and more cinematic. We really shot in great, glamorous locations. Stylish lofts, but also the well-known VL-Schloss are among the locations. In addition, there are of course many talented, new colleagues such as Sina Zadra and Frederik Götz, who provide new exciting stories.
How was the reunion with the old colleagues?
Metzger: I really enjoyed the Reunion! It was great to finally see again many of the old faces that you have worked with for so long. Many of the team, such as make-up artists and directors, were there again.
After the show was canceled, you battled depression. How are you today?
Metzger: Today I have become more stable. I think everyone has phases in life. I now lead a peaceful life with my husband and my dog and take more care of myself!
What have you been doing in the last few years?
Metzger: I mostly enjoyed the free time with my husband and was able to concentrate on many things that were neglected for a long time. I used to commute between Cologne and my place of residence and still take great care of my mother. Then I allowed myself the luxury of just relaxing. And I've started writing a book, but haven't finished it yet … "
Would you also be available for further episodes?
Metzger: Of course, Charlie is the role of my life, what do you think? (laughs)