Lilly Becker, known as the ex-wife of tennis legend Boris Becker, has joined the ranks of the celebrity contestants for the 18th season of the popular RTL show Dschungelcamp, which began airing on January 24, 2025. This year, the show returns to its roots, filmed once again deep within the Australian jungle, with hosts Sonja Zietlow and Jan Köppen guiding viewers and the 12 contestants through the rigorous challenges.
Born Sharlely Kerssenberg on June 25, 1976, Lilly Becker's life has been anything but ordinary. She experienced significant personal challenges from a young age, losing both of her parents in a tragic car accident when she was only three years old. Raised initially by her grandparents, who she describes as "die Allerallerwichtigsten in meinem Leben" (the most important people in my life), Lilly is no stranger to overcoming adversity.
Reflecting on her early life, Lilly shared, "Ich weiß nicht seinen Namen, ich weiß nichts. Er ist tot. Er ist gestorben mit meiner Mama" (I don’t know his name, I know nothing. He died with my mom). The emotional scars of such loss have shaped her worldview, and she aims to use her time in Dschungelcamp not only to demonstrate her strength but also to reconnect with herself. "Ich mache das nicht, um mich selbst zu entdecken, aber um meine Stärke wiederzufinden" (I am not doing this to rediscover myself, but to regain my strength), she stated before entering the camp.
During her time on the show, Lilly has opened up to her fellow contestants, sharing poignant memories of her childhood, upbringing, and the close bond she had with her grandmother. She frequently expresses how her grandmother's unwavering support helped her navigate through life’s challenges, commenting on the special love she received: "Die Liebe von einer Oma ist so besonders. Ich konnte ihr alles erzählen – auch wie mein Mann im Bett war" (A grandmother’s love is so special. I could tell her everything – even how my husband was in bed). This candidness has brought her closer to other contestants and has allowed viewers to connect with her on a more personal level.
The backdrop of Dschungelcamp provides Lilly with the perfect opportunity to showcase her resilience. "Ich bin 48 Jahre alt. Ich habe viele Sachen erlebt. Gute Zeiten, schlechte Zeiten und spannende Zeiten. Ich habe natürlich etwas zu erzählen" (I am 48 years old. I have experienced many things. Good times, bad times, and exciting times. Of course, I have something to share), she noted confidently during her time on the show.
Aside from her emotional challenges, Lilly's participation nearly faced legal obstacles. Initially scheduled to appear before the courts on January 22, her date has been postponed to February 26, allowing her to continue her adventure on Dschungelcamp without interruption. This legal battle, involving her former partner Pierre Uebelhack, whom she reportedly owes money, adds additional pressure to her public persona. Uebelhack has claimed she owes him 218,253.37 euros, arguing it was not merely financial support but rather loans. Lilly maintains it was a gift from their relationship, offering 150,000 euros as part of a settlement, which he rejected, pushing the matter to court.
Lilly's public life intensified after marrying Boris Becker, whom she met in 2005. Through their tumultuous marriage and eventual divorce, which was finalized officially only last year, Lilly has maintained her public image, leveraging it to become prominent on various television shows including Let's Dance and Promi Shopping Queen. Today, she stands strong as both a media personality and devoted mother to her son, Amadeus, who she proudly states is her greatest achievement.
Lilly's history is rich with lessons of strength, survival, and the importance of family, showcasing how those bonds have helped her through the most challenging times. Her decision to enter Dschungelcamp at this juncture is both strategic and personal—aiming not just for entertainment but to reclaim her narrative and share her truth with the world.
Throughout her time on Dschungelcamp, she has reassured the audience of her stability, stating, "Ich mache das nicht, um mich selbst zu entdecken, aber um meine Stärke wiederzufinden" (I am not doing this to rediscover myself, but to regain my strength). With her past paving the way and her resilience guiding her, viewers are left to wonder what the future holds for Lilly Becker. Will she emerge victorious from this challenge, securing not just the Dschungel crown but also reclaiming her identity and her story?