Lena Gercke
The original winner of Germany's Next Topmodel who parlayed reality TV fame into a lasting career as a sought-after model and sharp-witted television host.
Born 1988 (age 38)·German fashion model and television host·Birthday: February 29·Millennials
Biography
Lena Gercke didn't just win the first season of Germany's Next Topmodel in 2006; she defined what a winner from the Heidi Klum-hosted phenomenon could become. Overnight, the then-17-year-old from Marburg became a household name. But unlike many reality TV stars, Gercke used the platform as a legitimate launchpad. She booked major campaigns for brands like H&M, C&A, and L'Oréal, becoming a familiar face in European fashion circles. Her true second act, however, came in front of a different camera. She evolved into a poised and charismatic television host, most notably steering the ship for 13 cycles of Austria's Next Topmodel with a mix of warmth and authority. Gercke's career arc is a masterclass in brand management, transitioning seamlessly from a contestant to a respected industry figure who has sustained her relevance for over a decade and a half.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Lena was born in 1988, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Lena Was Born
The biggest hits of 1988
#1 Movie
Rain Man
Best Picture
Rain Man
#1 TV Show
The Cosby Show
Lena's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1988Born
Pan Am Flight 103 bombed over Lockerbie
Gas: $0.90/galHome: $74,800Min wage: $3.35/hrPresident: Ronald Reagan"Faith" — George MichaelBest Picture: Rain Man
1993Started school
European Union officially established
Gas: $1.11/galHome: $86,600Min wage: $4.25/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"I Will Always Love You" — Whitney HoustonBest Picture: Schindler's List
2001Became a teenager
September 11 attacks transform the world
Gas: $1.46/galHome: $126,400Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Hanging by a Moment" — LifehouseBest Picture: A Beautiful Mind
2004Could drive
Indian Ocean tsunami kills over 230,000
Gas: $1.88/galHome: $157,300Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Yeah!" — UsherBest Picture: Million Dollar Baby
2006Could vote
Twitter launches; Pluto reclassified as dwarf planet
Gas: $2.59/galHome: $174,700Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Bad Day" — Daniel PowterBest Picture: The Departed
2009Turned 21
Michael Jackson dies; Bitcoin created
Gas: $2.35/galHome: $148,500Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Boom Boom Pow" — The Black Eyed PeasBest Picture: The Hurt Locker
2018Turned 30
Royal wedding of Harry and Meghan; Parkland shooting
Gas: $2.72/galHome: $211,800Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Donald Trump"God's Plan" — DrakeBest Picture: Green Book
2026Age 38 today
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Became the first-ever winner of the television competition 'Germany's Next Topmodel' in 2006.
- Served as the main host for 13 seasons of 'Austria's Next Topmodel' from 2009 to 2022.
- Has been a recurring face in major advertising campaigns for international brands like H&M and L'Oréal.
- Launched her own fashion line, 'LENA,' in collaboration with the German retailer C&A.
Did You Know?
She was only 17 years old when she won Germany's Next Topmodel.
She is in a long-term relationship with professional footballer Mats Hummels.
She has worked as a brand ambassador for the German cosmetics chain Douglas.
She studied media management after her initial modeling success.
“I learned early on that you have to build your own path after the spotlight fades.”
