Dramatic farewell tears: Dagmar's life in the Benz barracks ends

Dramatic farewell tears: Dagmar's life in the Benz barracks ends

The look behind the scenes of “Hartz und Herzen” shows life in socially disadvantaged areas, where many people live on the subsistence level and are confronted with a daily struggle. On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, a new episode will be broadcast on RTL 2 at 6:05 p.m. that will shed light on Jean and Carsten's preparations for a boxing competition. The protagonist Nicole also has an exciting date with the artist Peter, whom she met online. This social documentary, which has been broadcast since 2016, shows the moving fates of people who are often in difficult life circumstances and gives them a voice. RND reports that filming will take place in cities such as Mannheim, Duisburg and Rostock, with the Benz Barracks in Mannheim being one of the most famous locations.

The show follows the protagonists as they deal with social challenges and focuses on the reality of their lives. It's exciting to watch how viewers identify with characters like Elvis, Dagmar and Janine. However, there are also tragic fates to report; Prominent protagonists such as Marion, Lisa-Marie and Dagmar have already died, while Frank M. from Duisburg was the victim of a cruel crime. Ute Biernat, managing director of UFA Show & Factual GmbH, emphasizes that the show is authentic and reflects real life.

Daggi's life and legacy

Dagmar, affectionately known as “Daggi”, was a fixture in the Benz Barracks community. Her willingness to help and her tireless commitment to people and animals made her an admired personality. Their white house served as a point of contact for neighbors who were looking for advice or just wanted to have a chat. Her friend Elvis even called her the “Mother Teresa of the Benz Barracks.” A special about Dagmar, which captures many of her best moments, will be broadcast on September 30, 2025. RTL2 has recorded exclusive interviews with Dagmar's brother and friends who once again pay tribute to her warmth, humor and courage.

With the demolition of Dagmar's beloved little house in May 2025, a piece of home was lost. Many neighbors had hoped to be able to preserve the building as a “Dagmar Museum” after the demolition announcement in autumn 2024 left many mourners. At the house's farewell ceremony, numerous friends and residents came together to say goodbye to a place that for many was more than just a building.

Social hotspots and their significance

The designation as a social hotspot is not chosen without reason. These areas are often characterized by income poverty, high unemployment and social isolation. The term, which has been used in social science literature since its definition by the German Association of Cities in 1979, describes places where there is a lack of development opportunities for children and young people. Wikipedia explains that such social hotspots are not only visible in eastern German cities, but also in other parts of Germany, where privileged households often leave these areas. The result is the creation of “poverty islands” and challenges for communities.

The documentary “Hartz und Herzen” provides valuable insight into these processes and helps to reduce the stigmatization of the people affected. By showing their daily struggles and humanity, the show sensitizes viewers to the real living conditions in these neighborhoods. In the next episode we will also reflect on Dagmar's legacy and the impact she has left on those around her. It remains exciting to see what the future holds for the protagonists and how their stories will continue to unfold.