In a sensational trial that has captured the attention of Austria, ZDF actress Anna Werner Friedmann, known for her role in "Die Toten vom Bodensee," is facing serious charges of bodily harm and sexual harassment. The legal proceedings unfolded on May 6, 2025, at the Neunkirchen District Court, stemming from an incident during a performance of the play "Alma" at the Südbahnhotel am Semmering in August 2023.
The allegations against Friedmann, 33, are severe. She is accused of biting her co-star, Benjamin S., on the buttocks and holding a burning torch to his nose during a scene that was meant to depict a realistic portrayal of a rape scenario. The incident reportedly occurred in front of an audience, leading to a chaotic situation that even prompted police intervention prior to the performance.
According to reports, on August 4, 2023, police were called to the venue due to concerns regarding the safety of the audience. However, they ultimately withdrew without taking action. The controversy surrounding the production has since escalated into a courtroom drama.
Friedmann, defending her actions, claimed in court, "I only pinched him; it was a love bite." She argued that the bite was part of a pre-agreed scene intended to be portrayed realistically, stating, "The audience loved it." Her lawyer, Manfred Ainedter, emphasized that the scene had been performed over 20 times without complaint prior to the incident.
However, Benjamin S. painted a different picture. He testified emotionally, stating that Friedmann bit him so hard he experienced significant pain, prompting him to push her away, only for her to bite him again. During his testimony, he expressed such fear of Friedmann that he requested she be removed from the courtroom. He also alleged that she had previously exhibited inappropriate behavior towards him during other productions.
Friedmann's defense team has been vocal in their critique of the accusations. Ainedter asserted, "He is not a rape victim," and pointed out that Friedmann herself had suffered injuries during the intense performances. He highlighted that Benjamin S. did not file his complaint until a year after the alleged incident, and the photos he provided only showed bruises, which he argued were insufficient to substantiate his claims.
The trial has also brought to light the role of director Paulus Manker, who is accused by Friedmann of orchestrating a campaign to damage her career after she resigned from the production. Manker has been publicly criticized for his management style and has faced separate legal issues, including defamation and investigations for potential financial misconduct.
Friedmann's assertion that the biting incident was merely a theatrical element has raised eyebrows. She contended that the intensity of the bite was in line with the passionate nature of her character, Alma. However, the court must now decide whether her actions constituted bodily harm and sexual harassment or were simply part of a dramatic performance.
The courtroom drama has been marked by emotional testimonies and intense exchanges. A colleague who stood next to Friedmann during the performance could not confirm any deliberate actions with the torch, which Friedmann claims was the result of an unforeseen movement during a chaotic scene.
As the trial progresses, the tension between the involved parties remains palpable. The next court session is scheduled for July 9, 2025, where further testimonies, including that of Manker, are expected to unfold. Should Friedmann be convicted, she faces a potential prison sentence of up to one year.
This case not only highlights the complexities of performing arts but also raises critical questions about consent, boundaries, and the responsibilities of actors in portraying intense scenes. As the legal battle continues, the implications for Friedmann's career and the broader theater community are yet to be fully realized.
