You are involved in a wide range of professional activities – actor, producer, voice artist, presenter, singer, and together with Joko Winterscheidt and Juliane Eller you have developed wines under the label “III Freunde”. What gives you the most joy at the moment?

It’s actually the combination of acting and directing – taking responsibility for my own projects. That’s what I love. In the United States, I’m more active as a filmmaker, which gives me greater creative freedom. The wine originally came from a spontaneous idea among friends. Today, it has become a successful venture – especially our alcohol-free varieties, which are very popular with a young audience.

Yesterday, your new film “Das Leben der Wünsche” was shown at the ZFF. How was the gala premiere in Zurich?

It was truly moving to experience the audience’s reaction – when they laughed, when they became thoughtful. Even international industry friends were touched. You could feel the magic of cinema, and that’s exactly what drives me. For me, this film marks the beginning of a new journey: my projects are becoming more mature, more profound, yet they retain their sense of humour.

You already look back on a successful international career. If you had three wishes, what would they be?

I try not to see wishes as something passive, but as something connected to responsibility. My three most important values are peace, gratitude, and mindfulness. One must actively contribute to all of these – that’s what matters to me.

We are here at the Dolder Grand. Have you already met the Concierge?

Not yet – but I truly enjoy being a guest in places like this. My first glance always goes out the window, into nature. Those quiet moments are just as valuable to me as any service.

You’ve attended the ZFF several times. What do you particularly like about Zurich and the festival?

The festival has something sheltered about it, yet also a touch of Hollywood glamour. You connect with people on a very personal level. The green carpet here in Zurich has a special energy – compared to many other festivals, it feels more intimate and immediate.

Which of your friends did you invite to your first wine tasting?

The first tastings were very private, just among friends. But since then, we’ve had guests like Jamie Oliver – a lovely sign of how far the idea has come.

The Chef Fine Dining & Culinary Director here, Heiko Nieder, has been awarded 2 Michelin stars. Is there a dish you would wish for?

When it comes to food, as in life, I prefer things simple and focused. A good piece of meat, a fresh salad, and creamy mashed potatoes – that’s all I need. Or, as served by Heiko Nieder, in the form of a potato mousse. Perfection often lies in simplicity.