Bright Prospects for Merkel Double

"My telephone never stops ringing," says 45-year-old Susanne Knoll when asked about her new-found fame as the doppelganger for CDU chairwoman and chancellor candidate, Angela Merkel.

Over the past few weeks, Knoll's diary has been overflowing with bookings to appear as the woman many believe now has a very good chance of becoming Germany's first female chancellor. Even incumbent Gerhard Schröder's Social Democrats (SPD) have booked Knoll during their election campaign, her agent Jochen Florstedt said.

Knoll admits she was less than enthused when friends and relatives started telling her how much she resembled Merkel, who is known for her plain looks and frumpy style.

Resemblance a "blow"

"I didn't want to believe it. I know I am no beauty but given Merkel's image, the idea that I resembled her was something of a blow," Knoll said.

"I comforted myself by saying I only looked like her when I made an effort to, or when I looked tired and drawn."

Lucky for Knoll, Merkel has had an image overhaul in recent weeks, softening her severe hairstyle, applying more make-up and wearing more flattering suits.

Fun and financially rewarding

Knoll admits she's starting to have fun in her new role, not least because of the tidy paychecks she's able to take home as a result.

"I now study (Merkel's) way of talking, and her gestures. I never miss her talkshow appearances, and in the meantime, I've also read her book," Knoll said.

When it comes to politics, though, the similarities end. Knoll supports Schröder's party, the SPD.

Still, she might be forgiven for hoping the pollsters are correct in predicting a Merkel victory in the next general election. Anything else would be an occupational hazard.