Christine Neubauer, renowned for her acting prowess, is stepping onto the dance floor for the 18th season of the popular RTL show "Let's Dance," which is set to premiere on February 21, 2025. At 62 years old, Neubauer is not just another contestant; she aims to break records by becoming the oldest winner of the show. This marks her first foray as a contestant, making her ambitions all the more inspiring.
Neubauer, who first gained fame playing the character Traudl Grandauer in the ARD series "Löwengrube," has had a rich career, spanning numerous awards and significant roles since her debut on television. The actress reveals, "Mein Herz ist gefüllt mit ganz viel Vorfreude, aber ich weiß natürlich um die gigantische Herausforderung" ("My heart is filled with anticipation, but I am aware of the gigantic challenge"). This candid acknowledgment reflects her excitement and trepidation as she prepares for the physical demands of dance.
Her health condition, Morbus Bechterew, influences both her participation and training. This chronic inflammatory disease affects her spine and can lead to significant physical limitations. Neubauer was diagnosed with the condition after suffering from sharp back pain during her previous appearance on the dance show "Dance Dance Dance" back in 2017. Despite these challenges, she remains committed to participating, viewing dance as not only a passion but also as therapeutic. "Das Beste, was ich machen kann (...) sind Dehnübungen, Gymnastik oder eben Tanzsport (...)" ("The best thing I can do (...) are stretching exercises, gymnastics, or even dance sports") is how she describes her motivations for entering this competitive arena.
Unlike many younger participants, Neubauer aims to demonstrate to those over fifty and sixty years of age, "alles möglich" ("everything is possible"). She wants to break stereotypes about age and capability, firmly believing her participation sends out something bigger than her personal goals. "Wenn man nicht antritt, um das Bestmögliche zu erreichen, warum tritt man dann an?" ("If you're not competing to achieve the best you can, then why are you participating?") she asks rhetorically, underscoring her competitive spirit and dedication.
Noting her limitations, Neubauer candidly states, "Von einer guten Tänzerin bin ich Welten entfernt" ("I am worlds away from being a good dancer"). She acknowledges the skill and training required for the show, likening it to elite sports. Yet, von ihrer eigenen Fähigkeit sie ist optimistisch: "Ich halte mich nicht für einen Bewegungsmuffel ohne Körpergefühl" ("I do not see myself as someone who is unfit and has no sense of body control"). This shows her readiness to learn and any determination to push her limits, no matter her age or circumstances.
Beyond the physical aspect, Neubauer's participation brings forth emotional challenges as well. She describes the experience as likely being "eine Achterbahnfahrt der Gefühle" ("a rollercoaster of emotions"), filled with moments of pain, exhaustion, and joy. Her desire for her dance partner is quite unique: she wants someone who can be "a mix of mental coach and drill instructor" to help her stay focused and committed throughout their time together.
The support from family and friends, albeit mixed, stays consistent. "Oh Gott" ("Oh God") sums up the initial reactions she received about her ambitious endeavor. Nevertheless, with their support and her own fighting spirit, Neubauer feels this opportunity is both a gift and challenge. Her motivation to succeed combined with her willingness to face difficulties sets her apart from other contestants.
Christine Neubauer is not just participating for personal glory; she embodies resilience and hope. Her entry sends a powerful message to both her peers and younger generations. She hopes her dance can inspire others to pursue their passions regardless of age or health conditions. With anticipation building, we will see if she can claim not just the title but also hearts on Friday nights as she takes on the dance floor with all its rhythms and struggles.
With the new season approaching, audiences are likely to tune in not only for the dancing but also for Neubauer’s inspiring story. A story of positivity, motivation, and breaking barriers, reminding everyone watching at home, or participating alongside her, what it means to truly dance—both literally and metaphorically.