An interview and the cover story from our new digital issue. Join us as we dive into the life and career of celebrated German actor Daniel Zillmann—a native Berliner, who has journeyed from the heart of Neukölln to the grand stages of cinema and television.
With candid insights, Zillmann shares his experiences of growing up in Berlin, making his film debut, and embracing a plethora of diverse roles that have defined his dynamic career. His voice acting finesse and his courageous stance on inclusivity and body positivity echo through his thoughtful reflections. In this exclusive interview, Daniel Zillmann lays bare his path to becoming an actor, his most cherished roles, and the importance of representation in the industry.
Prepare to be inspired by his words and his remarkable journey in the world of acting.
Daniel, what first sparked your interest in acting and led you down this career path?
I was watching Ghostbusters at the end of the 80s and I decided, “This is what I want to do when I grow up!” Busting ghosts? No, acting in movies is full of fun and fantasy. During that time, I landed my first leading role in our school theatre play, in which I played the king. I found it easy to learn my lines, and I had a very loud voice, so the teacher thought I was perfect for that part.
After bowing down to the audience and listening to the applause, I realized this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I found my purpose very early. Typical for a Capricorn.
Could you share with us what your experience was like growing up as the son of nurses in Berlin-Neukölln?
My whole family is from Berlin; our roots are deep. My parents are very down-to-earth and yet very special. For me, it’s always good to come home to my parents’ house and calm down. They are proud but not my “fans,” you know?
Your film debut came with Leander Haußmann’s movie NVA; how did this initial experience shape your acting career?
I think it changed everything for me. I was so naive when I landed that role. And it was so well written. The late casting director Simone Bär taped my audition behind the director’s back because he didn’t want to invite me to the casting process. Later she showed him the tape, and he was convinced to invite me to a live audition, which was crazy. Full of improv, and I had to show my whole range of talent… Leander Haußmann was satisfied, and they offered me the role. During the shooting process, he wrote a whole new scene for me, which was a long funny, heartwarming monologue. I was so excited and didn’t want to mess up. But in the end, it was just a wonderful experience, and the scene was kind of groundbreaking for me.
In your varied career, you’ve played an array of different characters. Do you have a particular role that you’ve found most challenging or rewarding?
I loved playing the evil duke in Zwerg Nase, a classic fairy tale because that role was so rich and multifaceted. That character was a danger to everyone around, but he always seemed very delighted when it came to food and art. But the moment he got disappointed by his staff, the duke would explode like a volcano, and his actions were unpredictable.
I often get typecast as a very sympathetic yet strange person, but I love challenges. Once I had to play a very wealthy, queer drug lord who kills people if they stand in his way. He was jealous and very mean to women. When the police came to question him, he just didn’t answer but started to sing. A real psycho. So much fun!
Read the full interview here:
Interview by Marcel Schlutt
Photos by Joseph Wolfgang Ohlert @jwo_studio
Follow Daniel at @daniel_zillman
