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Birgit Schrowange Opens Up About Early Career Harassment and Hardships

The RTL star reflects on overcoming sexual harassment at ZDF and financial struggles during her rise in the male-dominated television industry.

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Overview

  • Schrowange revealed she faced sexual harassment by a ZDF boss in the 1980s, who retaliated against her after she rejected his advances.
  • She formally complained to the ZDF intendant about the superior's behavior, a bold step in a time with limited protections against workplace harassment.
  • Before achieving success, Schrowange endured severe financial hardship, living in a 12-square-meter apartment without private facilities and using a public pool to bathe.
  • Her career began at WDR in the late 1970s, where a supportive superior recognized her potential and helped her transition to on-camera roles.
  • Now an advocate for women's solidarity, Schrowange emphasizes the importance of mentorship and institutional accountability in fostering change in the media industry.