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Benjamin von Stuckrad-Barre cuts ties with Christian Ulmen over abuse allegations

A high-profile friendship collapses under the weight of disturbing accusations. Why one writer's public stand could reshape how Germany confronts abuse.

The image shows a paper with a drawing of three people and text that reads "The New Coalition -...
The image shows a paper with a drawing of three people and text that reads "The New Coalition - Punch, or the London Charivari - February 18, 1920". The people in the drawing appear to be in a state of distress, with one person in the center of the group, their arms outstretched and their face contorted in anguish. The text on the paper is written in a bold font, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

Author Distances Self from Former Friend - Benjamin von Stuckrad-Barre cuts ties with Christian Ulmen over abuse allegations

Author Benjamin von Stuckrad-Barre has ended his friendship with actor Christian Ulmen after serious allegations surfaced. The accusations, made public by Ulmen's ex-partner Collien Fernandes, include claims of digital and physical abuse. Stuckrad-Barre described the allegations as 'simply horrifying' and has since taken a firm public stance against violence.

The controversy began in March 2026 when Der Spiegel and other outlets reported Fernandes' claims against Ulmen. These included allegations of deepfake videos and a physical incident in January 2023 on Mallorca. Fernandes supported her account with a BKA study highlighting low reporting rates for domestic and digital violence in Germany.

Stuckrad-Barre responded swiftly, severing ties with Ulmen and expressing solidarity with Fernandes. He called on men to actively condemn violence against women and stop protecting offenders. His statement emphasised that 'digital sexualised violence is violence', reinforcing the severity of the accusations. Legally, Ulmen remains presumed innocent. His lawyer has announced plans to challenge what they describe as 'untrue claims based on a one-sided account'. Meanwhile, Fernandes has filed a formal complaint in Spain, where preliminary court inquiries are now underway.

The case has prompted wider discussions about accountability and the handling of abuse allegations. Stuckrad-Barre's public break with Ulmen underscores the growing demand for men to confront violence against women. The legal process will determine the outcome, but the accusations have already had a clear impact on personal and professional relationships.

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