Pierre Sanoussi-Bliss is making headlines as he competes in the popular reality-TV show, Dschungelcamp 2025, also known as Ich bin ein Star – Holt mich hier raus! This 62-year-old actor, widely recognized for his role as Kriminaloberkommissar Axel Richter on the ZDF series Der Alte, is venturing beyond scripted performances to share his authenticity with the public.
The Dschungelcamp commenced its new season on January 24, 2025, broadcasting from its scenic location in Australia. Pierre has entered the camp not only as a competitor but also as a voice for diversity within the entertainment industry. He aims to challenge societal norms and promote representation for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those like himself—older, Black, and queer.
Pierre's recent announcement of his separation from his husband, Till Kaposty-Bliss, has added another layer to his story. Just days before entering the camp, he revealed on Instagram, "We have separated last August after 23 years together." This unexpected news shocked many fans, and Pierre clarified his motives behind the public disclosure, stating, "With the rising press inquiries about my husband, I thought, it's time to address it. We still have great affection for each other." His amicable stance on the breakup indicates there may still be hope for reconciliation down the line.
Pierre's strong advocacy for diversity stems from his own experiences within the industry. He expressed his identity concisely, saying, "I am the diversity in one person: as someone from the East, as gay, as Black. There's nothing beyond this. If this elevates someone else's tolerance threshold, I am already where I need to be." His participation is also seen as pivotal as he puts his feelings about representation on display nationwide.
So far, life inside the camp has been anything but boring. Pierre has shared instances of tension among contestants, including disputes about sleeping arrangements. On day nine, during some playful banter, he found himself at the center of drama when tensions flared with fellow contestant Edith Stehfest, quipping, "You're such a silly cow!" This exchange exhibited Pierre's unfiltered self, as he remarked after the incident, "If I don't feel taken seriously, then it's out of here!"
With his eyes set on the potential prize of 100,000 euros, Pierre decided to come out of his comfort zone to engage directly with viewers, something he describes as simultaneously exhilarating and anxiety-inducing. "Going to entertainment shows is about me as a person, not just my role, and it kind of gives me butterflies, but I'm equally excited about this new venture. Thanks to camping trips I took as a child, I have this experience to lean on," he commented.
Pierre's path to this moment has been anything but conventional. Born on August 17, 1962, in East Berlin to a Guinean father and German mother, he broke barriers as the first Afrodeutscher to study acting at the Ernst Busch Academy. His dedicated career has spanned over four decades, showcasing his talent across film, theater, and more recently, audiobooks. One of his notable films, Keiner liebt mich, not only gained him significant acclaim but also identified him as one of the first openly gay actors to receive such recognition within Germany.
Following his 18-year tenure on Der Alte, the abrupt end to his role struck him hard, particularly the manner of his exit from the show. "That was terrible!" he lamented, speaking candidly with his fellow camp members about the experience of being written out due to age. He described the situation as dehumanizing and criticized the production's hiring practices. Perpetual short-term contracts left him struggling with social security benefits, earning just 1,100 euros per month for his extensive work.
Despite these obstacles, Pierre remains hopeful about the future. He sees Dschungelcamp as more than just another reality show; it is his platform to challenge misconceptions about older, queer individuals, proving his worth and multifaceted identity. "When do you ever see old, Black, gay people on TV? I am here to express and represent all those identities distinctly," he affirmed, emphasizing the importance of breaking stereotypes.
Before dawn breaks on another day of challenges, Pierre’s confidence and passion for authenticity shine through, proving he can embrace his vulnerability on this new stage.
His story continues to resonate as audiences connect with someone who embodies resilience, affirming his commitment not only to personal expression but also to pushing for diversity and representation across Germany's media landscapes. Pierre Sanoussi-Bliss is not merely pursuing the title of king of the jungle; he is truly opening up conversations surrounding symbolism and identity for all underrepresented groups.