Lawyer Criticizes German TV Show for One-Sided Coverage in Actor's Legal Case

The attorney representing actor Christian Ulmen has publicly criticized the Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR) and the editorial team of the talk show 'Caren Miosga' for their planned broadcast. The episode, scheduled for Sunday evening, features actress Collien Fernandes and Federal Minister of Justice Stefanie Hubig (SPD) discussing digital violence and women's protection. Ulmen's lawyer, Christian Schertz, argues that the program is presenting only one side of an ongoing legal investigation, calling it 'egregiously contrary to the rule of law.' He contends that inviting only Fernandes and Hubig, without representation for Ulmen, undermines fair legal proceedings. Schertz had offered to participate but was declined, with the show's producers stating the guest lineup was already set. The show's editorial team defended its approach, emphasizing press freedom and the public relevance of addressing digital violence, while asserting that the presumption of innocence for Ulmen would be maintained. The controversy stems from allegations by Fernandes against Ulmen, involving digital harassment and fake profiles, which led to renewed investigations by the Itzehoe public prosecutor's office last week. Schertz has denied claims about deepfake pornography, clarifying that such content never existed. Critics, including FDP deputy chairman Wolfgang Kubicki, have echoed concerns about one-sided media coverage in active legal matters.