German TV presenter Fernandes alleges ex-husband created deepfake sexual content
German actress Collien Fernandes has accused her ex-husband, actor Christian Ulmen, of managing fake social media accounts impersonating her and distributing deepfake sexual content of her to numerous men over years. The allegation sparked widespread public outcry and legislative action in Germany regarding digital sexual violence against women.
What happened
Collien Fernandes, a German actress and television personality, alleges that her ex-husband Christian Ulmen, also an actor, managed fake social media accounts in her name for years and distributed pornographic deepfakes and images to numerous men, featuring her simulated body in explicit poses.
According to reports, others also impersonated Fernandes on social media, starting online affairs with men under her identity and creating or sharing pornography purportedly of her, using other women who resembled her or AI-generated imagery. Some charged money for this material.
Reported impact
The case generated outrage in Germany and sparked debate about protecting women from digital sexual violence. A demonstration in Berlin drew approximately 7,000 people showing solidarity with Fernandes and all victims of digital sexual violence.
More than 250 famous women released a catalogue of stricter measures directed at the German government to protect women and expressed solidarity with Fernandes for her courage.
Index analysis
The deepfake sexual content was created using AI technology to simulate Fernandes' body in explicit poses and distribute them to men, combining image manipulation and deepfake video techniques.
Governance controls
German Justice Minister Stefanie Hubig announced plans to present legislative measures earlier than originally scheduled in response to the case.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.