Franzi Schmidt, a star from the reality show "Goodbye Deutschland," finds herself in a whirlwind of emotions as she navigates an unexpected pregnancy with her ex-partner Saris. The 37-year-old is currently hospitalized in Berlin, hoping for a stable pregnancy after her water broke two months prematurely.
Franzi's journey began two years ago when she emigrated to Zanzibar with Saris, who was just 23 at the time. The couple invested around 70,000 Euros into a house on the idyllic island, dreaming of a new life together. However, trust issues soon surfaced, culminating in a shocking discovery when Franzi found numerous love messages from other women on Saris's phone. Feeling betrayed, she ended the relationship and returned to Berlin, but not before learning she was pregnant with Saris's child.
Now, amidst the emotional turmoil of her breakup, Saris is claiming rights to the unborn child. This adds another layer of anxiety for Franzi, who is already grappling with the realities of single motherhood. "I was completely shocked," she shared in a heartfelt video message from her hospital bed. "The last 24 hours have been a blur; I’ve just been on autopilot." Franzi is under constant medical supervision, taking antibiotics three times a day and has already received a lung maturation injection to help her baby.
Franzi is determined to keep her baby safe and plans to remain in the hospital for at least four to five weeks, hoping to prolong her pregnancy. "I’m just completely exhausted," she admitted. "I’m between crying and trying to keep it together. I hope everything will turn out okay." Thankfully, she has family support; her mother has come to care for Franzi's seven-year-old son, Willi, during this challenging time.
Despite the anxiety surrounding her pregnancy, there was a silver lining. On February 13, 2025, Franzi gave birth to her daughter, Malia Nelai, who arrived healthy and strong. The Instagram account for "Goodbye Deutschland" shared the good news, stating, "We are very pleased that Franzi and the baby are doing well. Despite the early birth, everything went smoothly, and we wish you all the best!" Franzi expressed her joy, stating, "Now we are complete," as she embraced her new role as a mother of two.
However, the path ahead is still fraught with challenges. Franzi is acutely aware of the legal complexities she faces regarding custody, especially since Saris has shown little interest in the baby but indicated he may want to take her after birth. In Tanzania, where they lived, fathers automatically receive custody rights, which has left Franzi feeling vulnerable. "Because we didn’t part on the best terms, I worry he might try to take my child away," she explained in a recent interview.
To ensure her daughter receives German citizenship and to protect her custody rights, Franzi made the decision to give birth in Germany. This decision was not without its difficulties; shortly before her departure, she was also a victim of theft when an employee stole from her, adding to her stress during an already turbulent time.
After her daughter’s birth, Franzi faced another hurdle. Malia required artificial ventilation for two days after her arrival and could only go home once she weighed at least two kilograms. Franzi plans to stay in her former Berlin apartment for three months until Malia is strong enough for a long-distance flight back to Zanzibar.
Looking ahead, Franzi is optimistic about her future as a single mother. She believes that her children will have a happier, freer life in Zanzibar compared to Germany. "I’m convinced that my kids can lead a more fulfilling life in Africa," she stated confidently. Franzi's story is set to continue as VOX plans to follow her journey, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of her life as a single mother.
As Franzi navigates this new chapter, she remains hopeful and determined. With the support of her family and the lessons learned from her past, she is ready to embrace her role as a mother of two and continue her dream of life in Zanzibar, despite the obstacles that lie ahead.
