Erich Altenkopf’s departure was not voluntary

Farewell after 16 years

Erich Altenkopf’s exit from “Sturm der Liebe” was not voluntary

He has been part of “Sturm der Liebe” since 2009. Now Erich Altenkopf has to say goodbye to the telenovela ARD. He told t-online how this happened.

Hardly any telenovela on German television has been as successful as “Sturm der Liebe”. The series has been broadcast for the first time since 2005 and attracts millions of viewers to its screens. Erich Altenkopf was also part of the cast for 16 years, playing doctor Dr. Michael Niederbühl. But now the final blow has been dealt to the actor; the final episode with him will air on Wednesday.

Saying goodbye to the series, which has long defined his daily professional life, was not easy for Erich Altenkopf – and it was not entirely voluntary, as he told t-online in an interview.

t-online: How did you leave “Sturm der Liebe”?

Erich Altenkopf: When I found out that Dr. Michael Niederbühl is over, I’m really disappointed. On the last day of filming, I couldn’t hold back my tears any longer. I couldn’t believe it – the Fürstenhof had been like my home for years. I really enjoyed working there, the atmosphere was always great and I was lucky enough to get to play popular characters. I had a wonderful time for 16 years. But as often happens in life, when you love something so much and have to let it go, a huge gap remains.

So you didn’t go voluntarily?

The production team thought the format should be younger. We then talked about it openly. It has always been a challenge for me to travel between my home city, Vienna, and Munich. On the one hand I have a good job in Munich, on the other hand I have a family in Vienna. That’s hard to reconcile. When the decision was made, I finally felt relieved. If I were alone, I probably would never have said that I wanted to quit. Now I have a lot of time for my family – my son and daughter are very happy that I am at home. Ultimately, spending time with the people you love is more important.

The last episode was filmed a few months ago. What are you busy with?

First I sit in front of the piano and play my feelings and emotions into it. The piano has always been my friend in difficult times. The song “Our Love” was also created during this phase, which I will sing to the Sonnbichlers on their golden wedding anniversary as a parting gift. And at the same time, I also say a big thank you to all the fans of ‘Sturm der Liebe’. Without them, this amazing journey would not have been possible. You’ll be able to hear this personal piece in episode 4,500.