RTL Group | Cologne, 07/01/2025

German Cancer Aid and “GZSZ”: Together Against Testicular Cancer

The RTL series produced by UFA Serial Drama aims to raise awareness and promote prevention.

“Gute Zeiten, schlechte Zeiten” (“GZSZ”), produced by UFA Serial Drama, is once again highlighting a topic of major social relevance. Now in its 33rd year, the long-running RTL series is devoting an emotional storyline to the topic of testicular cancer and cooperating with German Cancer Aid (Deutsche Krebshilfe), to support targeted awareness and prevention efforts. Just this past April, RTL announced that “GZSZ” would address the topic of organ and tissue donation.  Previous storylines have explored issues such as medication and gambling addiction, homophobia, and bullying.

The joint initiative by RTL, UFA Serial Drama, “GZSZ,” and German Cancer Aid aims to raise long-term awareness of all types of cancer, encourage those affected, and motivate healthy individuals to take an active role in protecting their health. The current storyline on testicular cancer is based on the personal experience of “GZSZ” actor Lennart Borchert, who was diagnosed five years ago, has since recovered, and is expecting his first child this year. Together with fellow actor Jan Kittmann – his co-star and patron of the initiative – Borchert is working to make the topic less of a taboo. “I know from personal experience how devastating the diagnosis can be – and how important it is to talk about it,” says Borchert. “If this storyline inspires people to pay closer attention to their health and see a doctor when something feels wrong, then we’ve already achieved a lot.”

A realistic and sensitive portrayal

In the show, it is Jan Kittmann’s character Tobias who receives the diagnosis. The shock not only turns his own life upside down but deeply affects those around him as well. The story follows him through every stage of the illness, from early symptoms to diagnosis, treatment, and the emotional challenges along the way. Topics such as fertility, effects on relationships, and psychological stress are portrayed realistically and empathically.

“Testicular cancer affects more young men than people realize, and chemo – if needed – can be lifesaving but also a deeply disruptive experience,” says Katja Bäuerle, “GZSZ” Producer at UFA Serial Drama. “This storyline gives us an opportunity to tell the story of how a diagnosis like this can change a person’s life with sensitivity, candor, and compassion.”

Christiane Ghosh, Executive Producer at RTL, adds: “Testicular cancer is something many young men know far too little about – and which can be cured if caught early. We hope this storyline will raise awareness and maybe even save lives.”

‘Look after your health – and see a doctor if anything feels wrong’

To ensure a realistic and respectful portrayal, the “GZSZ” team is working closely with German Cancer Aid and medical experts. “Every year, around 4,000 men in Germany are diagnosed with testicular cancer – mostly young adults between the ages of 20 and 40,” says Franz Kohlhuber, Chairman of German Cancer Aid. “The diagnosis often comes as a major shock for those affected and their loved ones. German Cancer Aid offers free, independent information and support for people with cancer. We also encourage healthy individuals to take an active role in their well-being. Everyone can reduce their own cancer risk – and the earlier a tumor is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment.”

“I’m proud to support this initiative alongside Lennart,” says actor Jan Kittmann. “It’s a special responsibility to portray a character facing something I haven’t experienced myself – but that many men are dealing with. I think it’s important to explore the emotional and physical impact of the illness in a way that’s honest and empathetic, while also sharing this message: look after your health, go see a doctor if anything feels wrong, and take advantage of early cancer screening services offered by your healthcare provider. Early detection can save lives.”

To accompany the TV broadcast, additional information will be provided via RTL’s online magazines at rtl.de and on the social media channels of “GZSZ.” A public awareness campaign with hashtags like #CheckYourself and #GZSZgegenKrebs (GZSZagainstCancer) aims to encourage young men in particular to perform self-checks. As part of Germany’s statutory cancer screening program, Bertelsmann BKK recommends that men age 45 and older see their general practitioner for an annual early detection exam. You can find more information via the link  provided.