Jessy Wellmer: The Voice of the Tagesthemen and Her Journey from Güstrow
BERLIN, 03 March 2026 — As one of the most prominent faces of German public broadcasting, Jessy Wellmer has successfully transitioned from the high-energy world of sports journalism to the anchor desk of Tagesthemen. Known for her authentic style and her perspective as a prominent East German voice, Wellmer continues to shape the landscape of ARD’s news coverage.
Early Life and Academic Background
Jessy Wellmer was born on 5 December 1979 in Güstrow, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Growing up in the former GDR as the daughter of two teachers who also performed cabaret, she developed an early appreciation for communication and public performance. Before embarking on her professional career, she spent a formative year abroad in New Zealand during her school years.
She pursued her higher education in Berlin, studying Social and Business Communication at the University of the Arts (UdK), graduating in 2004. This academic foundation led her to the Electronic Media School (EMS) in Babelsberg, where she honed her skills for a career in journalism.
Career Milestones: From Sportschau to Tagesthemen
Wellmer’s career is defined by her versatility. She initially gained nationwide fame as a sports presenter, becoming a staple of the Sportschau and leading ARD’s coverage of major events, including the Olympic Games and European Championships. Her ability to combine technical expertise with a relaxed, approachable manner made her a viewer favourite.
On 30 October 2023, Wellmer took a significant step in her career by succeeding Caren Miosga as an anchor for Tagesthemen. In this role, she provides in-depth analysis of global political events while maintaining her reputation for asking direct, insightful questions.
Professional Profile
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jessy Wellmer |
| Date of Birth | 5 December 1979 |
| Place of Birth | Güstrow, East Germany |
| Current Role | Anchor, Tagesthemen (since Oct 2023) |
| Education | University of the Arts Berlin (UdK) |
Recent News: The “Office Dog” Debate
In recent days, Wellmer has made headlines for a more personal reason. In interviews conducted this week, the 46-year-old journalist expressed her regret regarding the strict regulations at Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR). Wellmer, who owns a Labradoodle named Juni, revealed that she is not permitted to bring her dog into the newsroom.
While she noted that her workday would be significantly improved by the presence of a “Bürohund” (office dog), she remains compliant with the broadcaster’s current ban on pets in the workplace. The story has sparked a lighthearted but widespread discussion about modern working environments within public institutions.
A Representative of East German Identity
Wellmer is frequently cited as one of the most influential East German voices in national media. She has often used her platform to discuss the societal differences and shared histories between East and West Germany. Recently, during a visit to Dresden for the MDR Sachsenspiegel, she shared her nuanced views on the current state of German society, emphasizing that despite political tensions, “not everything is bad.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When did Jessy Wellmer start at Tagesthemen?
Jessy Wellmer officially joined the Tagesthemen team on 30 October 2023, taking over the position previously held by Caren Miosga.
Where is Jessy Wellmer from?
She was born and raised in Güstrow, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, in what was then East Germany.
What kind of dog does Jessy Wellmer have?
She owns a Labradoodle named Juni. She recently spoke publicly about her wish to bring Juni to the NDR newsroom, though current station policy prohibits it.
What did Jessy Wellmer study?
She studied Social and Business Communication at the University of the Arts in Berlin, completing her degree in 2004.