Günther Maria Halmer: A life between stage and Lake Constance history

Günther Maria Halmer: A life between stage and Lake Constance history

Günther Maria Halmer is a striking figure on the German acting scene, and his recent role as a professor emeritus of philosophy in the ARD film “Trapps Sommer” particularly highlights his ability to portray emotional complexity. In this film, which aired on August 8, 2025 at 8:15 p.m., Halmer plays a former professor who increasingly needs help in everyday life. His character is supported by the nurse Sofia, played by Senita Huskic. Halmer reflects that working with younger colleagues and the immediate feedback on stage has made him more relaxed and calm, a further indication of the richness of his work as he ages.

At 82, Halmer can look back on an impressive career. “I often get offered similar roles, usually as a grumpy old man with a heart of gold,” he says, but also addresses the clichés that surround older people in films. He expresses his displeasure at the fact that dementia characters are often tailored to him, while he calls for a wider range of facets of older people. “Television often has a negative view of age,” he criticizes, adding that other, more realistic portrayals could also be offered.

The path to acting

Halmer discovered his passion for acting at the age of 24. With his breakthrough as Tscharlie in “Munich Stories,” he established himself as an idiosyncratic and charming character actor. For many, Halmer is unforgettable in the role of lawyer Abel, which he played for twelve years. In his autobiography “Anyone Can Fly – Views of a Reluctant One”, published in 2017, he gives insights into the personal and professional challenges that have shaped him. Halmer is proud that he has a contract at the Munich Residenztheater until 2027.

He also knows the dark side of the industry. He experienced tragic losses, such as the death of Hannelore Elsner during filming, which he considers ruinous. His performances, whether in the theater or film, demand a lot from him - not just physically, but also mentally. “Rehearsals at the theater last six weeks, while I have to learn a lot of lines when filming at home,” explains the actor, who keeps fit and does strength training three times a week. He often learns texts out loud while exploring nature, which is a welcome change from his often hectic everyday life.

A look behind the scenes

“Trapp's Summer” not only introduces Halmer in his role as a professor, but also presents a deeper narrative about old age and its challenges. Halmer emphasizes that the film addresses how you can use the last few years to come to terms with yourself. Reflection on his relationship with his late father also plays a central role.

The roles Halmer chooses are not just a question of biography, but also a conscious decision to break through clichés. “I see positive changes, even if interesting roles for mature women are still rarer,” he says, praising the increasing number of public appearances by older actors. Aging is treated in many ways in the film industry, whether in comedies or character studies, where age often takes on deeper psychological dimensions. Halmer is aware that he works in an industry that always needs new twists.

Günther Maria Halmer not only remains an integral part of the German acting scene, but also acts as a mouthpiece for old age and its challenges. He shows that getting older is not a reason for withdrawal, but rather an incentive for reflection and further development.

For those who would like to find out more about Halmer and his current projects, we refer you to the reporting by and Merkur. For a comprehensive look at the portrayal of aging in film, the Filmlexikon is also a good place to start.