Simone Ballack Opens Up About Family Tragedy in National Television Appearance
COLOGNE, 2 February 2026 – Simone Ballack, the well-known German television personality and former wife of football legend Michael Ballack, has captivated audiences with a series of deeply personal revelations during her current stint on the reality programme “Ich bin ein Star – Holt mich hier raus!” (Jungle Camp).
Emotional Scenes at the Campfire
As the 2026 season of the popular RTL show reaches its tenth day, Simone Ballack, 49, has emerged as one of the most poignant figures in the Australian bush. In recent broadcasts, Ballack spoke candidly with fellow contestants about the tragic loss of her son, Emilio, who passed away in a quad bike accident in Portugal in 2021 at the age of 18.
The Mother of three shared details regarding the final messages exchanged with her son, a moment that moved both her campmates and viewers across Germany. The discussion also touched upon the complexities of grieving in the public eye and the strain such events place on family dynamics. Ballack noted that she currently maintains no contact with her parents, highlighting a period of significant personal transition.
Interaction with Fellow Contestants
Beyond her personal history, Ballack has been a central figure in the camp’s social hierarchy. She was seen questioning musician Gil Ofarim regarding his high-profile separation, though Ofarim remained largely vague about the details. Additionally, she has shared moments of mutual support with actor Hardy Krüger jr., as the group navigates the physical and psychological challenges of the competition.
Key Profile: Simone Ballack
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 49 |
| Current Project | “Ich bin ein Star – Holt mich hier raus!” (Season 2026) |
| Notable Past Appearances | Let’s Dance (RTL), Promi Big Brother |
| Family | Three children with ex-husband Michael Ballack |
| Residence | Recently relocated to Italy for a “new start” |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Simone Ballack in the news?
She is currently a contestant on the 2026 season of the German reality show “Jungle Camp” (RTL), where her emotional honesty regarding her son’s passing has garnered significant media attention.
What happened to her son, Emilio?
Emilio Ballack tragically died in August 2021 following a quad bike accident in Portugal. Simone has used her platform to discuss the grieving process and keep his memory alive.
Who was Simone Ballack married to?
She was married to former Chelsea and Bayern Munich midfielder Michael Ballack. The couple was together for 14 years before their divorce was finalised in 2012.