Janine Kunze: The Enduring Career of Germany’s Comedy and TV Icon
COLOGNE, 20 February 2026 — As one of the most recognisable faces on German television for over two decades, Janine Kunze continues to balance a prolific career in acting and presenting with her role as a prominent media personality. Known for her sharp wit and versatility, Kunze remains a fixture in the German entertainment landscape, recently appearing in high-profile musical specials and maintaining a strong presence in the podcasting world.
Biographical Profile
Born Janine Katharina Kunze on 20 March 1974 in Cologne, the actress has built a career that spans sitcoms, feature films, and reality television hosting. Standing at 173 cm, the Pisces-born star has become a symbol of the “Cologne charm” that defines much of her public persona.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Janine Katharina Kunze |
| Date of Birth | 20 March 1974 |
| Place of Birth | Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia |
| Age (as of Feb 2026) | 51 years |
| Height | 173 cm |
| Nationality | German |
| Spouse | Dirk Budach |
Career Highlights and Breakthroughs
The “Hausmeister Krause” Era
Kunze’s definitive breakthrough came in 1999 with the comedy series Hausmeister Krause – Ordnung muss sein. Portraying Carmen Krause, the daughter of the titular character, she became a household name. The show was a critical and commercial success, winning the German Comedy Award for Best Sitcom in 2002.
Film and Television Versatility
Beyond sitcoms, Kunze has appeared in several notable German films and series. Her filmography includes roles in Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door (1997), Barfuss (2005), and the comedy Siegfried (2005). In recent years, she has transitioned seamlessly into hosting, notably presenting the ProSieben reality show Die Alm alongside Daniel Aminati.
Current Projects and Recent Appearances
Musical Specials and Guest Appearances
As of today, 20 February 2026, Kunze is featured in the television special Die erfolgreichsten Mitsing-Hits aller Zeiten (The Most Successful Sing-Along Hits of All Time). Appearing alongside guests such as Evelyn Burdecki, Sasha, and Josh, Kunze continues to be a preferred guest for prime-time entertainment formats.
The Podcast Medium
Kunze has also embraced the digital shift, engaging in the podcasting sphere. She recently hosted a candid conversation with Big Brother veteran Jürgen Milski, where the two discussed the evolution of reality television and the industry’s “blacklists.”
Personal Life
Janine Kunze has been married to Dirk Budach since 2002. The couple has three children. Recently, media attention has turned toward her daughters, who are beginning to make their own way in the public eye, stepping out from the shadow of their mother’s established career.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How old is Janine Kunze?
As of 20 February 2026, Janine Kunze is 51 years old. She will celebrate her 52nd birthday on 20 March 2026.
What is Janine Kunze’s most famous role?
She is most widely recognised for her role as Carmen Krause in the long-running German sitcom Hausmeister Krause – Ordnung muss sein.
Is Janine Kunze still active in television?
Yes, she remains highly active as both an actress and a presenter. She frequently appears on major German networks like RTL and ProSieben in various entertainment and reality formats.
Where was Janine Kunze born?
She was born and raised in Cologne, Germany, and remains closely associated with the city’s cultural scene.