Katja Burkard was born on April 21, 1965, in Bad Marienberg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. She spent her early years in the small community of Höhn-Neuhochstein. Her father was a restaurateur, and she grew up alongside her older sister. From a young age, she displayed a strong inclination towards academics and media. She attended the Konrad-Adenauer-Gymnasium in Westerburg, where she completed her secondary education. Later, she pursued higher education in German studies and political science, laying the foundation for her future career in journalism and broadcasting.
Career Beginnings
After completing her education, Katja Burkard embarked on her professional journey in the media industry. She started as a trainee at the Bastei publishing house, where she gained experience in journalism and editorial work. She later worked as an editor for “Goldene Gesundheit,” a publication focused on health and wellness. Her career took a significant turn when she joined “teuto Tele,” a television production company, which provided her with exposure to the broadcasting industry. Her exceptional skills and dedication led her to become a reporter for RTL’s news editorial offices in Cologne, where she contributed to various programs, including “Punkt 6” and “RTL Nachtjournal.”
Rise to Prominence with “Punkt 12”
Katja Burkard’s big break came in the fall of 1995 when she started co-hosting the weekend editions of “RTL aktuell.” Her talent and professionalism caught the attention of network executives, and on April 14, 1997, she was appointed as the main anchor of “Punkt 12,” RTL’s midday news magazine. Her role as the lead anchor propelled her to national fame, making her one of the most recognizable faces in German television. Over the years, she has become synonymous with the show, delivering news with credibility, charisma, and a unique style that resonates with viewers.
Television and Film Appearances
In addition to her primary role as a news anchor, Katja Burkard has made several appearances in television and film. In 2000, she had a cameo as a news anchor in the film “I Love You, Baby.” The following year, she appeared in “Auf Herz und Nieren,” further expanding her presence in the entertainment industry. She took on more engaging roles, including participating in the RTL docu-soap “Katjas härteste Jobs” in 2006, where she explored various challenging professions. In 2011, she made a guest appearance in the popular television series “Doctor’s Diary.” She also showcased her versatility in 2015 when she joined the RTL dance competition show “Let’s Dance,” demonstrating her ability to entertain audiences beyond the newsroom.
Authorship and Literary Contributions
Beyond television, Katja Burkard has also made a name for herself as an author. In February 2013, she released her first children’s book, “Rundherum und hin und her – Zähneputzen ist nicht schwer,” which aimed to make dental hygiene enjoyable for children. The book was well-received and appreciated for its engaging storytelling and valuable lessons. In September 2019, she published her biography, “Wechseljahre? Keine Panik!,” where she openly discussed her experiences with menopause. Her candid approach and insightful writing resonated with many readers, further solidifying her influence beyond television.
Personal Life and Relationships
Katja Burkard has been in a long-term relationship with Hans Mahr, a former RTL editor-in-chief, since 1998. The couple has two daughters, Marie-Therese, born in 2001, and Katharina Anna Milla, born in 2007. The family resides in Cologne, where they have built a stable and happy life together. Despite the demands of her career, she has always prioritized her family, maintaining a balance between her professional and personal responsibilities. In her biography “60 ist das neue 60,” published in February 2025, she revealed that she and Mahr were separated for nearly a year in 2022 but eventually reconciled. This personal revelation added another layer of depth to her public persona, showing her resilience in both her career and personal life.
Height and Physical Appearance
Katja Burkard is widely recognized for her distinctive appearance. She is known for her blonde curly hair, which has become a signature aspect of her on-screen presence. While exact details about her height are not publicly documented, she carries herself with poise and confidence, making a lasting impression on viewers. One of the unique aspects of her speech is her slight lisp, particularly with the letter ‘S.’ Rather than being a hindrance, this trait has made her voice instantly recognizable, adding to her charm and authenticity as a broadcaster.
Net Worth as of 2024
As of 2024, Katja Burkard’s net worth remains undisclosed in public records. However, given her extensive career spanning decades in television journalism, hosting, and authorship, she has undoubtedly accumulated significant wealth. Her long-standing association with RTL, along with book royalties and other media engagements, contribute to her financial success. Her influence in the industry and ability to diversify her career have ensured her sustained prosperity.
Latest News
In early 2025, Katja Burkard made headlines with the release of her new book, “60 ist das neue 60.” The book, which explores aging and life experiences, has sparked discussions about her personal life. One of the most talked-about revelations from the book is her temporary separation from her longtime partner, Hans Mahr, in 2022. This unexpected news has been widely covered in the media, with many fans expressing admiration for her honesty and resilience. Despite the challenges, the couple has since reconciled, reinforcing their strong bond.
Detailed Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Katja Katharina Burkard |
| Date of Birth | April 21, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Bad Marienberg, Germany |
| Nationality | German |
| Profession | Television Presenter, Author |
| Partner | Hans Mahr |
| Children | Marie-Therese, Katharina Anna Milla |
| Notable Works | “Punkt 12,” “Let’s Dance” |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Username | Link |
| katja_burkard_official |
