Jimmy Hartwig: From HSV star to the social fighter-a life portrait

Jimmy Hartwig: From HSV star to the social fighter-a life portrait

Jimmy Hartwig, a legend of Hamburger SV, celebrated his 70th birthday on October 5. This day is not just a celebration; He is a symbol of the amazing life of a man who comes from a modest circumstances and has experienced numerous ups and downs. Born in Offenbach, Hartwig grew up in an environment that was shaped by poverty and in which he experienced the rejection of his family due to his origin. His father, a US soldier, was never part of his life, and his grandfather wished that he had never been born. Hartwig remembers: "My grandfather did not want me to be born. They always had to be careful when I was small that he didn't press a pillow in my face."

But football became a valve and a passion for Hartwig that offered him consolation and respect. After receiving his first professional contract with the Kickers Offenbach in 1972, he went through various stations, which should finally lead him to his greatest success: Hamburg SV. There he became a three -time champion and European Cup winner. Despite his great talent and his performance, including over 240 Bundesliga games and numerous goals, he only played two international matches for Germany.

from football star to entertainer

Outside of the square, Hartwig was not only a brilliant footballer, but also an entertainer. With his hit "Mama Calypso" from 1980, he got into the charts and was celebrated as a singer in various TV shows. But life was not always rosy. After the end of his professional career, Hartwig fell into a dark phase that was characterized by drug abuse, financial problems and health crises. He spoke openly about his fights, including the diagnosis of cancer and the attempt to end his life. "This is a big miracle. I think dear God likes me," said Hartwig about his persistent survival.

Over the years, Hartwig found a new calling in acting. His theater career seriously began in 2002, and he performed in various productions, including at the National Theater in Weimar. Hartwig has also published two biographies in which he describes his experiences and fights.

commitment and success in private life

Hartwig has now built a stable private life. After three failed marriages, he found peace with his fourth wife in Inning on Ammersee. He is a proud father and emphasizes the importance of the family for his life. Hartwig also promotes cohesion and integration in football as an integration ambassador of the DFB. His participation in the documentary "Black Adler" underlines his willingness to talk about racism in sport and to work for change.

in public perception Hartwig has proven with his life story that he mastered the challenges of life. "So far I have always punished all those lies that underestimated me," he summarizes his journey, which led him back from the abyss. Hartwig shows that it is never too late to make your dreams come true and use his voice for the good. For more information about his impressive life, of the article on www.ndr.de Very revealing.