Famous German TV comedian Hans Peter 'Hape' Kerkeling tells about his upbringing which in retrospect is the root of his special humor. His parents came from poor backgrounds so the family lived alternatively on the two farms of his grandparents. He was more mischievous than his older brother and was attracted to costumes and show elements from a very early age, ever since he saw his first carnival parade. Fate repeatedly dealt the family a cruel blow with the deaths of relatives, and so humor became his weapon for self-preservation while he practiced entertaining at home, years before he was discovered.—KGF Vissers