Axel Milberg's tenure as Klaus Borowski, one of the most memorable investigators on German television's 'Tatort,' drew to a close during the episode titled 'Borowski und das Haupt der Medusa,' which aired on March 18, 2025. Unfortunately for Milberg, the end of his 21-year run did not just signal retirement, but rather, it spiraled him directly from the crime scene to the confines of prison.
The episode featured Borowski apprehending Robert Frost, played by August Diehl, after unearthing sinister details surrounding the character. The tension escalates during the arrest when Borowski accidentally discharges his firearm, resulting in Frost’s death. At this point, Borowski had already been retired for several hours, making his possession of the weapon particularly problematic.
Reflecting on his time as Borowski, Milberg noted, “21 years are a long time in one’s life. Now, I’m excited for new cool roles.” Though he will miss the character, he emphasizes the need for actors to evolve along with the industry.
Milberg's portrayal of Borowski made such an impression over the years, playing the quintessential Norddeutscher Einzelgänger. After 42 cases since 2003, he confirmed his departure was not merely his own decision but one brushed along by changes seeking to refresh the show. He candidly remarked, “So beautifully focused was the character Borowski, but after 21 years, the market has changed and I with it.”
Following the shooting incident, legal scrutiny swiftly surrounds Borowski. Upper State Prosecutor Axel Bieler, when consulted, elaborated on the situation: “When you catch someone red-handed, anyone is allowed to make a preliminary arrest.” The former investigator is now facing the prospect of being charged with manslaughter or murder, potential sentences ranging from five to 15 years, with the possibility of life imprisonment looming if convicted.
Through the episode, the narrative seamlessly took viewers from moments of reflection on imminent retirement to concerns about legal repercussions. But fans need not despair; Borowski, as it turns out, is not dead. Instead, he embarks on this new chapter behind bars, providing yet another gripping twist typical of 'Tatort.' This unlikely twist emphasizes the series’ hallmark of morally complex storytelling.
Despite being locked up, what's next for Borowski remains to be seen. The narrative hints at the possibility of acquittal since he could argue the shooting was accidental, particularly as the law allows for preliminary arrests when committing acts in self-defense. Still, he now faces disciplinary ramifications for not relinquishing his service weapon post-retirement, likely resulting in fines.
Milberg, who has expressed excitement about tackling future projects, previously mentioned his intent to explore roles beyond crime drama, feeling fatigued with the genre. “Why is there no other story? Why not something uplifting?” he urged, reflecting on his desire for stories to inspire rather than merely depict violence and tragedy. His upcoming historical series for Disney+, titled 'Vienna Game,' is one of many projects he looks forward to.
Reports indicate his departure from 'Tatort' might have been influenced by the need for younger faces on the show, leading to speculation about financial motivations behind recent cast shifts. Indeed, Milberg's own longevity on the series put him at odds with changing network priorities focusing on budgetary constriction, reflecting on the shifts seen across numerous lead roles this past decade.
Coincidentally, Milberg’s comments resonate with the sentiments expressed by other veteran actors like Ulrike Folkerts, who highlighted drastic show restructuring aimed at diversification. Such insights spotlight the complex balance networks must strike between maintaining heritage characters and appealing to modern audiences.
Despite these discussions, Milberg seems committed to maintaining his distance from the franchise, having stated definitively, “The end is meant as the end.” His final exit showcases the endless stories ‘Tatort’ can conjure, leaving viewers gripped till the last moment.
Although his character Klaus Borowski may face legal troubles, the legacy left behind by Milberg's performance remains indelible, marking the end of one era and the beginning of Milberg’s new adventures. With plans for more dramatic explorations, fans may soon see him redefine himself outside the confines of Kiel's crime scene.
