Former leader of the Social Democratic Party of Germany and former Vice Chancellor Franz Müntefering has been married for many years to a woman who is much younger than him. His wife, Michelle Müntefering, is about forty years younger.
The couple met while working in the German Bundestag. At the time, Michelle was working as an assistant in the politician’s parliamentary office. Müntefering himself was already one of the most prominent figures in German politics and held high government positions.
This is what t-online writes about.
Their relationship became public in 2009. That same year, they first appeared together at an event for the party newspaper Vorwärts in Berlin. Shortly after, Franz and Michelle officially married. At the time of the wedding, the politician was 69 years old, while his chosen one was 29.
The big age difference has repeatedly become a topic of discussion in the media. Müntefering himself has repeatedly stated in interviews that it does not matter to him. According to him, the main thing in a relationship is mutual support and trust.
Over the years of their life together, the couple has experienced various trials. In particular, his wife supported the politician during a difficult period when he had serious health problems and underwent heart surgery.
Today the couple lives in Berlin. Franz Müntefering has already retired from active political activity, while Michelle continued to work in government structures and diplomacy for some time.
Despite the significant age difference, their marriage has lasted for many years and remains one of the most discussed examples of unusual political unions in Germany.