Berlinale Spotlight: German Actress Gabrielle Scharnitzky On New TV Series “Those About To Die” by Roland Emmerich

German actress Gabrielle Scharnitzky stars in the new TV series Those About To Die, executive produced and co-directed by Roland Emmerich. The series, described as a story of freedom and destiny, explores a side of Rome never before told - the dirty business of entertaining the masses, giving the mob what they want most - blood and sport. 

Scharnitzky’s plays the role of Drusilla, who was captured by pirates and sold as a slave to the household of a wealthy couple, Consul Marsus (Rupert Penry-Jones) and his wife Antonia (Gabriella Pession), both reckless and cruel in their thirst for power. Drusilla nursed and raised their daughter Cornelia (Alice Lamanna). It is only Drusilla’s deep love for this girl that lets her overcome the endless hardships under the abusive rule of Antonia and Marsus. Having given up hope that one day she will be set free from slavery, Drusilla carries her destiny with great dignity. 

Scharnitzky recently participated in the meet and greet event at the Berlinale Film Festival, presented by Crawford Talents, The Actors Home, Red Carpet Actors and Black Universe.

“Networking is one of the most important tasks for every actor, no matter if a beginner or already successfully working in the business,” she comments. “We need to connect with filmmakers, directors, casting directors, and fellow actors. We need to get to know each other personally, share, exchange, converse, and get information about new projects, but most of all, have the chance to introduce oneself in person and show who we are aside from resumes, pictures, and show reels. Young actors especially need to get the chance to do so, because they can’t yet offer an oeuvre of completed works. So it is their commitment, passion, and fire that needs to be seen and film festivals are a perfect platform to show up, leave a good and lasting impression and possibly create a beautiful collaboration in the future.” 

Roland Emmerich's highly anticipated first streaming series Those About To Die stars Oscar-winner Sir Anthony Hopkins as Emperor Vespasian, Iwan Rheon (Game of Thrones) as Tenax, Tom Hughes (Victoria) as Titus Flavianus, Sara Martins (Death in Paradise) as Cala and Scharnitzky in a supporting role of Drusilla. Directed by Roland Emmerich and Marco Kreuzpaintner. the 10 episode series was shot at legendary Cinecittá Studios in Rome, and will premiere on Peacock/Amazon in summer 2024.