Christine Neubauer is making a surprising return to the popular dance competition "Let's Dance" on Friday, April 25, 2025, stepping in for the injured Simone Thomalla. The 62-year-old actress, who was unexpectedly eliminated from the show just weeks earlier, describes this opportunity as "an unbelievable, incredible gift." With her dance partner Valentin Lusin, 38, Neubauer is set to perform both the Tango and Samba, determined to make the most of her second chance.
Neubauer's return comes after Thomalla, 60, had to withdraw due to severe knee pain that became unbearable during the Easter break. Thomalla had celebrated her 60th birthday during the seventh show, dancing proudly with her daughter Sophia's legendary Rumba. However, unbeknownst to the audience, she was battling significant discomfort that ultimately led to her exit from the competition.
Upon receiving the call about her return on Easter Monday, Neubauer was overwhelmed with emotion. "It was really an emotional rollercoaster for me," she shared with RTL, recalling how she cried upon hearing the news. "I was still in bed when the call came. It hit me like a ton of bricks, and the feelings have been overwhelming ever since."
For Neubauer, this isn't just a chance to dance again; it's a chance to redefine herself. She claims, "It’s a completely different Christine who is coming back! I have experienced so much, and I’ve learned that we grow from our failures, not just our successes." This perspective comes after her emotional journey of being voted off the show, which she had not anticipated.
In preparation for her comeback, Neubauer has been training harder than ever, donning her father's old sports shirts as a good luck charm. Her father, Erwin Neubauer, who passed away in 2019 at the age of 84, instilled in her a passion for sports and physical fitness. "Without my father, I wouldn’t have the physical strength to endure 'Let's Dance.' He inspired my lifelong love for sports, and I owe my athleticism to him," Neubauer explained.
Her emotional connection to her father is profound, and she hopes to honor him by dedicating a special performance, her 'Private Moment,' to him in the upcoming week. "I want to dance for him and show how much he means to me," she stated, emphasizing the importance of this opportunity.
Despite the excitement surrounding her return, Neubauer's participation has sparked mixed reactions among fans. Some viewers are thrilled to see her back, while others express dissatisfaction, feeling that she should not have been reinstated after her earlier elimination. Former "Let's Dance" professional Christian Polanc noted that Neubauer's return has divided opinions. He remarked, "The audience is furious about her comeback, and it’s clear that her polarizing personality has not gone unnoticed. She has a loud and extroverted style that has split the viewers' sentiments."
Juror Joachim Llambi, who has been a vocal supporter of Neubauer, defended her against the backlash, stating that viewers should appreciate her talent and not focus solely on her personality. "Let people be who they are and enjoy the dance for what it is," he said on his Instagram, reflecting on the importance of performance over personal opinions.
As Neubauer prepares to take the stage again, she remains humble and grateful for the chance to participate. "I can hardly grasp that I am back on the floor. I’ve started training and will perform two dances. This is such an incredible gift for me," she expressed, revealing her excitement and determination to succeed.
Neubauer is not only focused on her performances but also wishes Thomalla a speedy recovery. "I hope Simone gets well soon, as knee injuries should not be underestimated," she said, showing her compassion for her fellow competitor.
In the upcoming show, Neubauer will perform a lively Cha Cha Cha alongside Lusin, and she is also scheduled to dance a Samba with Massimo Sinató in the eighth episode. As the competition heats up, all eyes will be on Neubauer to see if she can win over the audience and judges once again.
With her return, Neubauer aims to prove that second chances can lead to personal growth and renewed passion. "I’m learning to know myself again, and since I’ve returned, I’ve been very emotional. I’m humbled and grateful for this experience," she concluded, reflecting on the transformative journey she has embarked upon since her initial exit.
As the dance floor awaits her, viewers will soon discover whether Christine Neubauer can harness her experiences and emotions to captivate the audience and judges alike in her quest for the coveted title of 'Dancing Star.'
