Iris Berben, a prominent German actress, has been in a relationship with Heiko Kiesow for about 20 years and has chosen not to marry. She recently shared her thoughts in an interview with the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, revealing that her reluctance to marry stems from her upbringing in the 1960s, a time when she and her peers were inclined to break away from traditional norms and expectations surrounding marriage. Berben's experiences in this socially and politically charged environment led her to view marriage as something contrary to the values she stood for.

The actress highlighted the legal limitations women faced in the 1960s, noting that wives were often required to seek permission from their husbands to work, something she and her contemporaries sought to escape. This context shows how deeply ingrained societal norms influenced the life choices of many women of her generation. Berben's insights reflect a broader critique of the marital institution and its implications for women's autonomy at the time.

Now at 75, Berben expresses contentment with her decision against marriage, emphasizing that she never envisioned herself in such a role. Her thoughts resonate with many individuals who continue to grapple with the meanings and expectations of marriage in contemporary society. As more people challenge traditional views on relationships, Berben's perspective serves as a reminder of the generational shift in attitudes towards marriage and partnership.