Recommendations of the Editorial team
The serious allegations made by actress and presenter Collien Fernandes against her ex-partner Christian Ulmen are currently attracting a lot of attention. According to a report by “Spiegel”, Fernandes has filed a complaint in Spain and speaks of “virtual rape”. There are allegations of identity abuse and the creation of fake profiles, through which sexualized communication is said to have been carried out in the name of the actress over the years. While the legal process is just beginning, Fernandes is already receiving a lot of support from the public – especially from the celebrity world.
Collien Fernandes: Support from politics, media and entertainment
Numerous well-known personalities commented on Fernandes’ statement on social networks and expressed their solidarity.
Journalist VisaVie wrote: “Thank you for having the courage and strength to share this with the world! I wish you nothing but healing, hope and justice! Although unfortunately there probably cannot and will not be a truly appropriate punishment for the perpetrator…”
Comedienne Carolin Kebekus commented: “This is unbelievable. Thank you for your openness. Shame has to change sides.” Climate activist Luisa Neubauer also spoke up: “The biggest thanks on behalf of so many of us.” Moderator Motsi Mabuse wrote briefly and affectedly: “I have no words 😢 I am so sorry 🙏🏾” and author Ronja von Rönne commented: “Unbelievable. It is so unbearable that YOU now have to be the one who speaks out so courageously. I am so sorry.”
Politician Ricarda Lang also commented in detail: “I have no words for how bad this is. Thank you for your courage. You are showing a lot of those affected that they are not alone with these experiences. There is a system to the whole thing. And above all, you are drawing attention to how important it is that we finally take digital violence seriously and close the legal loopholes that leave women unprotected!”
“My deepest sympathy”
Former moderator colleague Tobi Schlegl wrote: “Your strength helps so many!” and author Sophie Passmann simply commented: “You are the bravest.” Ruth Moschner responded with the following words: “Dear Collien! I would like to send you a lot of strength. My deepest sympathy! Thank you on behalf of everyone for taking this path. Even for those who didn’t make it!”
Model Lily Becker wrote in English: “And that’s when women come together and we’ll hold your crown high. Stay strong and beautiful. Criminal charges incoming.” Moderator Jana Ina Zarrella added: “Great respect for your courage! You have my full solidarity. I’m incredibly sorry that you had to experience that.” Podcaster Ines Anioli also published a clear statement and wrote: “Full solidarity with Collien Fernandes.”
Collien Fernandes no longer wants to remain silent
Fernandes describes being the victim of systematic abuse of her online identity over about a decade. Initially, she assumed that internet trolls or cybercriminals were behind the activities. However, her suspicions later turned to her personal circle. Her own husband, Christian Ulmen, finally confessed to her that he was the one who created fake profiles for his wife and sent sexual content out of alleged possessive feelings. The responsible court in Palma de Mallorca has now started preliminary investigations. It is currently unclear whether charges will be brought. Ulmen has not yet commented publicly on the allegations. The presumption of innocence applies.
