Daniel Küblböck, Now 40, Subject of Raw ARD Documentary Detailing Tumultuous Life
A new three-part documentary series on ARD, “The Küblböck-Story – Eure Lana Kaiser,” offers a stark look at the life of Daniel Küblböck, who would be celebrating his 40th birthday this year. The series chronicles his meteoric rise to fame, subsequent fall from grace, and complex journey of self-revelation, including his transition and struggles wiht identity.
Küblböck initially captivated Germany with his unconventional personality and willingness to challenge norms, becoming a reality TV star after appearing on “Jungle Camp.” However, his “freaky” behavior, as described in media reports at the time, quickly drew intense scrutiny. Stern-TV and RTL rushed to cover his life, with “Bild” focusing on his “wild sex life” and alleged difficult family history, including reports of “two years in the educational home.” He faced death threats and hate campaigns, requiring bodyguards even in his hometown of Eggingen. The media attention included homophobic jokes from Oliver Pocher. Küblböck famously declared, “I have my own rules,” even eating cockroaches on “Jungle Camp.”
The documentary details Küblböck’s attempts to reinvent himself, taking singing lessons and exploring country and jazz music. In 2011, he moved to Mallorca and found a maternal figure in Kerstin Elisabeth kaiser, a real estate millionaire, adopting her name and ultimately deciding to change his gender, becoming Lana Kaiser.Kaiser attempted to launch a music career, performing at the ESC in Copenhagen in 2014, but failed to advance past the preliminary round. This rejection coincided with Conchita Wurst’s victory at the same contest, a moment that highlighted Europe’s embrace of tolerance. Following this setback, Lana Kaiser struggled with alcohol, self-medicated with sex hormones, and sought a new life in New York.The series culminates with Kaiser’s attempt to travel to New York by stowing away on a cruise ship, where she was discovered by passengers who recognized her as Daniel. She ultimately left the ship, continuing to live “according to her own rules.”
(aargauerzeitung.ch)
