Karin Thaler: Age discrimination stops Rosenheim Cops star!

Karin Thaler: Age discrimination stops Rosenheim Cops star!

The television world is experiencing a change that is particularly challenging for older women. Karin Thaler, who has represented city councilor Marie Hofer for almost 25 years “Rosenheim Cops” embodied, notices the changes first hand. The series continues to enjoy great popularity, attracting an average of three million viewers. But Thaler, who recently turned 60, is now without any role offers. She used to have a variety of options, but now there are hardly any offers for actresses her age.

She clearly sees the causes in age discrimination. In an industry that hardly takes women over 40 into account, it is an open secret that visibility is decreasing. According to a report by the BFFS Women over the age of 40 only play 32% of the roles in films and 34% on television, and over the age of 50 the figure is only 20% and 24% respectively. The contrast with reality, in which many women of this age gain professional and personal power, could not be greater.

A look forward

Despite the current lull, Thaler is optimistic. She has achieved many of her professional goals and sees no reason to panic. Leaving the successful series wouldn't be the end of the world for her. At least she stays sporty and has some job opportunities in prospect. Although she has not yet been able to realize her desired move to Hollywood, she still firmly believes that the future holds new opportunities.

Thaler's look at her career also highlights a common problem that affects many actresses. Not only are older women less likely to be found in leading roles, they also face various forms of discrimination. According to that BFFS They are often confronted with sexism, body shaming and gender pay gaps, which can result in the threat of poverty in old age.

Changes in the industry

Given these challenges, initiatives are needed. The BFFS has developed measures to improve the visibility and opportunities for older women in the entertainment industry. These solutions were recently presented at the film festival in Munich and could trigger a rethink in the industry. While Thaler offers hope that something could change in the future, the current situation remains a clear invitation to fight more for equality and visibility in the media.

The latest developments, such as Marisa Burger's announced exit from the “Rosenheim Cops”, show that the ensemble will continue to change. Thaler has not yet given any thought to saying goodbye to her role. As long as the series maintains high ratings, which it has consistently done since its launch in 2002, it wants to continue. Whether this will continue to be possible remains to be seen.