Sorry, I couldn't resist the temptation.
The climate isn't that bad anymore. Journalists often follow the leading media. The SZ has a very high reputation in Gemany. The sole fact that they chose Lena to represent her generation, and that they put her on the cover, indicates that the climate has changed.
Many of her fans find her lovely even in the most awkward situations and don't care what the media might say.
Good point. It might even be easier to be successful in a market where people (and the media) are less biased towards her.
Many of us would regret that. I always found your view "from the outside" very interesting and valuable.