The beloved actor emphasizes spirituality and dignity in dying as he advocates for hospice services.
Currently, Fischer is performing in the comedy “Kardinalfehler” at the Bayerischer Hof, a production that runs until May 11, 2025. In this role, he portrays a somewhat corrupt clergyman, showcasing his range as an actor. Despite the comedic nature of the play, Fischer’s heart lies in more serious matters, particularly the dignity of dying and the importance of hospice care.
In a recent interview with the magazine “Bunte,” Fischer emphasized the necessity of spirituality in his life, stating, “I need spirituality in my life, and I feel it when I go to church.” He remains a proud Catholic, even amidst negative headlines surrounding the Church. For him, the real essence of faith is found in the community, particularly in individuals like Sister Angela from the Hospizverein and Sister Raphaela from the Kloster Polling, whom he describes as “angels of charity.”
Fischer’s commitment to the hospice movement stems from a personal conviction. He expressed concern about how death is often pushed aside in society, saying, “We simply push it away. In southern countries, elderly people die surrounded by their extended families, while here, it is a rarity. Dying alone is terrible.” He aims to use his fame to give hospice care a public face and to raise funds for the cause. He noted that while there is substantial support for terminally ill children, adult patients often receive far less attention and resources.
With the support of Landtagspräsidentin Ilse Aigner, who serves as a second patron, Fischer is actively involved in expanding the hospice’s capacity. A second hospice is currently under construction, which aims to increase the number of beds from eight to 16 due to high demand. “It doesn’t matter if someone is Catholic or where they come from; we treat everyone equally. Whoever is next in line is next,” he affirmed, highlighting the inclusive nature of the hospice’s mission.
Fischer recounted a poignant story about a woman who initially planned to travel to Switzerland for assisted suicide—where it is legal—but ultimately found solace in the hospice. “If I had known that such a place existed, I would have never considered going to Switzerland,” she told him. This experience reinforced Fischer’s belief that hospices can prevent the fears of dying alone and in pain, which many patients face. He noted that the average stay for patients, referred to as ‘guests,’ is about 16 days, although some have longer stays based on their individual circumstances.
Reflecting on his own family history, Fischer shared the profound impact of losing his parents. His mother passed away at 61, and his father at 71. “I felt helpless seeing them suffer. If I had known about hospices back then, I would have wished them that kind of farewell,” he admitted. He cherishes the memories of his parents and often thinks of them in everyday moments, whether it’s in a laugh or a familiar scent.
Fischer’s passion for his work and his advocacy for hospice care stems from a deep-rooted belief in the importance of supporting not just the dying, but their families as well. “In dying, we are all not professionals,” he stated, acknowledging the emotional toll that the dying process can take on loved ones.
In addition to his acting and charitable work, Fischer is known for his unique hobby: collecting old Schlütter tractors. This interest is not merely a pastime; it is a heartfelt tribute to his parents, who both worked at the Schlütter tractor factory in Freising, which closed in 1993. “I have eleven of these tractors. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think about my parents,” he shared, illustrating how his collection keeps their memory alive.
His dedication to tradition and the land is evident in his lifestyle choices as well. Fischer has voiced his disdain for mass-produced meat and supports sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity. “I once ate an egg in a hotel, and it was terrible. I can’t understand people who buy cheap meat that only tastes like glutamate,” he remarked, showcasing his commitment to authenticity in all aspects of his life.
As he continues to balance his roles as an actor and a philanthropist, Fischer remains a beloved figure in German entertainment. Fans can catch him on “Die Rosenheim-Cops,” which airs every Tuesday at 7:25 PM on ZDF, with filming for the upcoming season already underway. With his heartfelt advocacy for hospice care and his passion for acting, Dieter Fischer is not just a star on screen, but a beacon of hope and compassion off it.
As Fischer looks to the future, he remains optimistic about his health and career, stating, “I feel pumperlgsund, as we say in Bavaria.” His fans undoubtedly hope to see him continue bringing joy and depth to their screens for many years to come.
