The RTL series “Gute Zeiten, schlechte Zeiten” (“GZSZ”), produced by UFA Serial Drama, once again addresses a socially relevant topic: bulimia. With a new storyline, the eating disorder of the character Lilly Seefeld (played by Iris Mareike Stehen) returns – many years after the much-noticed story from 2013. Once again, the production cooperated with the Dick & Dünn e.V. consulting center for eating disorders in Berlin to present the topic as responsibly and realistically as possible. To accompany the broadcast, “GZSZ” is raising awareness of eating disorders nationwide in cooperation with the Federal Institute for Public Health (Bundesinstitut für Öffentliche Gesundheit, BIÖG) with the aim to break down prejudices and make it easier for affected individuals to access help offers.
“GZSZ” has been campaigning for important issues for many years
For many years, “GZSZ” has been committed to dealing with topical or taboo issues in the series or to raise awareness. Last year, several episodes dealt with the topic of testicular cancer, which affected character Tobias Evers (played by Jan Kittmann). Together with several of the series’ actors, UFA Serial Drama also launched an information campaign about fake news in 2025. As part of the comprehensive awareness campaign, the “GZSZ” actors addressed false comments on social media and talked about the impact that these comments had on them.
Series shows relapse into an eating disorder
And here’s how the eating disorder topic is currently addressed in the series: Lilly, played by Iris Mareike Steen, is confronted with numerous emotionally stressful events within a short period of time. In order to not be overwhelmed by her feelings, she takes refuge in her work as a doctor. However, repression takes its toll: sleepless nights, nightmares, and increasing overload decrease control. Step by step, old behavioral patterns come back to the fore – until it becomes clear that Lilly is experiencing a relapse and her bulimia is back. The story clarifies that eating disorders can recur even after long periods of stability, especially in extreme situations.
Katja Bäuerle, Producer “GZSZ” at UFA Serial Drama, said: “In 2013, Lilly’s bulimia already reached many viewers. Continuing the topic allows us to take a differentiated look at the long-term course of an eating disorder. Thanks to the cooperation with Dick & Dünn and the Federal Institute for Public Health, we are able to deal with the topic in a professional and sensitive manner that is, at the same time, accessible to a wide audience.”
“Many messages from viewers”
Actress Iris Mareike Steen added: “I think it is important to address this topic again. Eating disorders affect an incredible number of people – including in my own circle of friends. It was important to me to show that old patterns can resurface in extreme situations even after many years.” Looking back at the first storyline from 2013, she said: “What immediately comes to mind are the many messages from viewers. I was particularly moved by the fact that many of them wrote that they sought help after watching the series. If our stories encourage people to confide in someone, that is very valuable indeed.” The actress also commented on the current storyline: “I have great respect for this story. The first relapse brought back old memories during filming. This makes it all the more important to me to continue to address this topic in a serious and responsible way.”
