Munich – November 01, 2026 -- German public broadcaster ARD and its film arm ARD Degeto have announced the death of producer Regina Ziegler, who founded her own production company in 1973 and built it into one of Germany's most significant independent producers over more than five decades.
Ziegler launched her company in 1973 in a male-dominated industry
When Ziegler founded her company, the film industry was far more male-dominated than it is today, according to ARD. The broadcaster credits her with building the business through persistence and an instinct for material and talent.
Ziegler productions shaped ARD's programming for decades
ARD names five award-winning productions that enriched its schedule: "Die große Flatter", "Weissensee", "Der Mann mit dem Fagott", "Gladbeck" and "Martha Liebermann - Ein gestohlenes Leben". The broadcaster says the works span historical upheavals, social conflicts and individual fates, and that Ziegler combined demanding subject matter with broad audience appeal.
ARD describes her work as an example of collaboration between independent producers and public-service broadcasting. It cites artistic quality, social relevance and mass reach as the hallmarks of that model.
ARD Degeto relied on Ziegler as a creative partner for decades
ARD and ARD Degeto characterize Ziegler as a long-standing creative partner who pushed difficult projects through and could be uncomfortable when required. ARD programme director Christine Strobl and Christoph Pellander, managing director of ARD Degeto Film, said in a joint statement that Ziegler did not merely tell stories but made them possible.
The statement extends condolences to her daughter Tanja Ziegler, her family and the employees of Ziegler Film.
ARD Mediathek offers two Ziegler titles following her death
The ARD Mediathek is making "Martha Liebermann - Ein gestohlenes Leben" and "Weißensee", among other works, available in tribute.