Lina Wendel reveals she once relied on Hartz IV social benefits

German actress Lina Wendel, known for her roles in series such as ‘Die Füchsin’, has revealed that she once relied on Hartz IV social benefits while raising her daughter as a single mother.

Speaking on the ZDF magazine ‘Volle Kanne’, the 61-year-old explained that she chose to step back from her acting career to avoid the constant relocations required by theater contracts, which she felt would not be suitable for her child. During this period, she worked various jobs, including caring for children with physical and mental disabilities.

Wendel stated that she did not regret her decision, describing it as a ‘wonderful phase of life’ with her daughter. She noted that she eventually moved away from state assistance because she did not want to be a ‘supplicant’ and managed to become self-sufficient relatively quickly.