Lars Steinhöfel, the beloved actor from the popular soap opera Unter Uns, has once again stepped back onto the love scene following his public breakup with Dominik Schmitt. The actor, now 38, recently disclosed his newfound relationship with 24-year-old influencer Lukas Küchen, who was crowned Mr. Gay Germany in 2023.
The couple reportedly met by coincidence during their vacation on the Indonesian island of Bali. "It was absolute coincidence but also slightly fate," Steinhöfel explained, recounting how both had discovered their simultaneous travels through Instagram. A spontaneous date followed, which clearly ignited sparks between them.
According to Steinhöfel, "We've spent the last four weeks together and are currently in the intense getting-to-know-each-other phase." This smooth transition from acquaintances to partners appears to have brought joy back to his life.
Steinhöfel's new love interest, Küchen, describes their chemistry as delightful. "We understand each other very well and are seeing where this goes," he stated optimistically. They had previously interacted at events, albeit only exchanging casual small talk. Now, their connection seems much more substantial.
Despite the significant age difference of 14 years, the couple appears unbothered. Steinhöfel praised Küchen's maturity, saying, "Lukas is incredibly mature and down-to-earth – he seems much older than he really is. With him, I can be 100 percent myself." Küchen echoed this sentiment, elaborately explaining the differences between his public persona and his true self: "On social media, I am like a character. Nobody wants to see the real Lukas, but Lars has gotten to know me for who I truly am – and he loves me for it. I can be myself with him."
Before their blossoming relationship, Steinhöfel endured quite the tumult with his ex-partner, Schmitt. The two had previously shared their lives and fame, even triumphing together on Das Sommerhaus der Stars in 2021. Their split was reportedly fraught with drama, as Steinhöfel faced public accusations from Schmitt. Amid this chaotic backdrop, his new romance with Küchen serves as both personal reprieve and public evolution, raising curiosity among fans about how this relationship will develop.
Indeed, the odds are stacking not just against Steinhöfel, whose previous relationship ended publicly and painfully, but also against Küchen, who has had his share of media scrutiny. His reign as Mr. Gay Germany faced turbulence, including allegations of misogyny and the fallout from controversies surrounding the event he was associated with.
Yet, both Steinhöfel and Küchen remain optimistic. Their recent trips to Bangkok mark the couple's continued commitment to exploring their feelings away from the gossiping public eye. Just days ago, they appeared together on social media, where they are already sharing glimpses of their time together.
Fans of both celebrities are intensely watching their relationship bloom. With over 72,000 followers backing Küchen on Instagram, the influencer regularly posts irresistibly cheeky pictures, which have now taken on added significance as they connect with Steinhöfel.
Although Steinhöfel acknowledges the importance of taking things slow and enjoying the current phase of their romance, he hinted, "We’re just letting this play out, seeing where it leads. Right now, we are both very happy, and I look forward to what’s next." With this heartfelt expression, he conveys both sincerity and the kind of maturity often sought after amid the chaotic nature of dating.
Steinhöfel's story serves as yet another reminder of the unpredictable and often turbulent nature of love, particularly within the public eye. This latest chapter, rooted both in delightful happenstance and serendipitous connection, offers hope for not just this star but for everyone who has navigated the often rocky terrain of relationships. Whether this “intensive getting-to-know-each-other phase” cement their bond or leads to another twist remains to be seen. For now, both Lars and Lukas seem eager to savor each moment of their budding romance.
