Peter Hermann has captivated audiences with his role as Charles Brooks in TV Land’s hit series, Younger. Beyond his on-screen charisma, Hermann’s journey is a fascinating blend of international upbringing, a diverse career path, and a thoughtful perspective on life and acting. This in-depth look explores the multifaceted world of Peter Hermann, from his early days in Germany to his thriving career in American television.
Born and raised in Germany, Peter Hermann’s transatlantic background provides a unique lens through which he views both American and European cultures. In an insightful interview, Hermann shared anecdotes that highlight these cultural nuances, particularly concerning everyday experiences like taking a walk. Recounting a story from a trip to Italy’s Amalfi Coast with his wife, actress Mariska Hargitay, Hermann humorously illustrated the differing perceptions of risk and adventure between Europe and the United States. What Europeans might consider a casual “pathway of the Gods,” Americans might perceive as a liability nightmare, showcasing Hermann’s keen observations and witty storytelling.
Reflecting on his identity, Peter Hermann describes himself as “a person from two places,” acknowledging the deep sense of belonging he feels in America while recognizing the enduring influence of his European upbringing. This dual identity is particularly pronounced as he raises his children, observing contrasting approaches to parenting. Hermann notes a tendency in the U.S. to treat children as “individual projects,” whereas European culture often emphasizes a broader sense of societal responsibility in child-rearing. This observation provides a glimpse into Hermann’s thoughtful nature and his ability to see and analyze cultural differences with nuance.
Peter Hermann’s role as Charles Brooks in Younger places him at the center of a narrative that cleverly addresses ageism and societal expectations, particularly for women. The show’s premise revolves around Liza Miller, a 40-year-old woman who pretends to be younger to re-enter the workforce. Hermann offers a male perspective on this issue, suggesting that men are often “oblivious” to the challenges women face regarding age in professional settings. He astutely points out that privilege often blinds individuals to the experiences of those who lack it. While his character, Charles, is initially unaware of Liza’s deception, he eventually comes to understand and appreciate her motivations, highlighting a capacity for empathy and understanding.
The conversation naturally shifts to Hermann’s wife, Mariska Hargitay, and her iconic role as Olivia Benson in Law & Order: SVU. He speaks with admiration for Hargitay’s portrayal of a fiercely strong female character who advocates for women, recognizing the cultural significance of such a role in television. While Younger and SVU occupy vastly different genres – comedy and drama, respectively – Hermann draws a parallel in their representation of women’s stories. Younger, he notes, offers a brighter, more optimistic perspective, emphasizing the supportive relationships between its female characters. He credits Sutton Foster, who plays Liza Miller, for imbuing her character with a “deep hopefulness and optimism” that resonates with audiences, making the show a source of comfort and joy.
One of Peter Hermann’s cherished moments from Younger is a scene from the first season where his character questions Liza about her age, “Are you sure you’re 27?” This scene, he explains, captures the burgeoning connection between Charles and Liza, as he recognizes her wisdom and experiences beneath the facade of youth. It’s a testament to Hermann’s ability to convey subtle emotions and the depth he brings to his character.
Delving into what he enjoys most about playing Charles Brooks, Peter Hermann reveals a nuanced understanding of his character’s inner life. He describes Charles as someone who, early in life, was steered away from playful pursuits towards more “respectable” paths. This suppression of his playful side, Hermann suggests, still resonates within Charles, fueling a hidden desire for creative exploration and personal fulfillment. Hermann articulates his hope for Charles to “explore finding deep fulfillment,” hinting at the character’s potential for growth and self-discovery.
While Peter Hermann remains tight-lipped about specific plot details for the Younger season finale, he offers a comforting reassurance that aligns with the show’s overall tone: “the show is hopeful — and there’s a lot of hoping going on in the final episode.” This promise of hope resonates with the show’s audience, who have come to appreciate Younger‘s optimistic and uplifting storytelling.
In a humorous anecdote concluding the interview, Peter Hermann recounts a past experience as a fact-checker and aspiring writer for Vanity Fair. He shares a comical mishap involving an interview with Sofia Coppola and a malfunctioning cassette recorder, resulting in the accidental erasure of the interview. This self-deprecating story reveals Hermann’s humility and ability to laugh at himself, adding another layer to his affable persona. It underscores his down-to-earth nature, a quality that likely contributes to his on-screen appeal and relatability.
Peter Hermann’s journey from Germany to the stages and screens of American television is a compelling narrative of talent, adaptability, and insightful observation. His role in Younger has solidified his place as a beloved television personality, and his thoughtful reflections on culture, identity, and character resonate deeply. As audiences eagerly anticipate future projects featuring Peter Hermann, his work continues to charm and engage, proving his enduring appeal in the entertainment world.
