Musician Helge Schneider, now 70, persists in creating music and dispensing absurdities.
Helge Schneider Turns 70: A Multitalented Comedian with a Diverse Career
This Saturday, August 30, Helge Schneider, the renowned German comedian, will celebrate his 70th birthday. Born in Mülheim an der Ruhr, specifically in the Styrum district, Schneider has made a name for himself as a jack-of-all-trades, earning the self-proclaimed title of "Klimperclown".
Known for his flashy outfits with colorful ties, bright colors, and often tousled wig, Schneider first gained nationwide recognition through his appearance on "Wetten, dass..?" on TV in 1994. His career, however, began much earlier, as a jazz musician in the 1970s, where he showcased his absurd, anarchic humor.
Schneider's wide range as a musician is highly respected. He plays Hammond organ, piano, guitar, drums, cello, accordion, and many more wind instruments. One of his most successful albums, "Katzeklo", was released from his double album "Es gibt Reis, Baby" (1993).
In addition to his music, Schneider has directed several films, including "00 Schneider - Jagd auf Nihil Baxter" (1994). His latest directorial venture is the crime series "Stepptanz" (2023), in which his alter ego, Commissioner Schneider, investigates.
Schneider's diverse career also includes writing books. He is the author of numerous books, such as the quirky novel "Eiersalat: Eine Frau geht seinen Weg" (1999).
Despite his success, Schneider has canceled performances due to disliking the drinks supply near the stage. He prefers to stay fit and active, walking, especially early in the morning "when no one's watching".
Schneider's birthday celebration will take place on an open-air stage in Hamburg's Stadtpark. His film "The Klimperclown" is currently available in cinemas and the media library.
Beyond his professional life, Schneider describes Spain as his second home in "The Klimperclown". He has six children from four women and still maintains a studio filled with musical instruments in his hometown of Mülheim an der Ruhr.
Meanwhile, Hamm, where Schneider was born, is experiencing a high unemployment rate. The city is focusing on traffic reduction for its 2025 Bike to Work campaign. Unfortunately, Hamm recently faced a major internet outage.
Schneider is critical of the internet and artificial intelligence in art. He hails from Mülheim an der Ruhr and still maintains a studio there filled with musical instruments. Despite his busy schedule, he can often be seen walking around the city early in the morning.
