In a heartfelt farewell, the Bergdoktor-Ticker, launched in February 2024 to provide insights into Season 18, concluded on March 21, 2025. This platform kept fans engaged with exclusive details about the show's developments, including the much-anticipated finale featuring the wedding of the beloved character, Dr. Martin Gruber, known as the Bergdoktor. The show's star, Hans Sigl, expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic support from viewers during this time.
In a notable moment during the finale, which aired on March 6, Sigl's excitement bubbled over, as he proclaimed, "We are the hottest shit in the ZDF media library!" This comment came after the episode garnered impressive streaming numbers, with between 1.08 and 1.363 million viewers tuning in, making it a top contender in audience rankings, according to data from dwdl.de.
But not all was smooth sailing for Sigl. Reflecting on an appearance on the 'NDR Talk Show', he took issue with moderator Bettina Tietjen's choice of words when she asked how many women the Bergdoktor had "verschlissen" (worn out). Sigl found this terminology inappropriate and took to Instagram on International Women's Day to reiterate the importance of language in discussing women's relationships. He stated, "Women are not worn out; they have relationships and are faithful." This sentiment underlined his commitment to representing strong female characters in the series, a theme he emphasized in interviews throughout the season.
Meanwhile, personal reflections from cast members enriched the series' narrative. Ronja Forcher, known for her role as Lilli Gruber since 2008, shared her deep emotional journey after losing her best friend to Progeria just weeks after her debut on the show. This touching account was tied to her new book, "Forever by My Side: A Special Friendship and the Path to Myself," published on March 3, 2025.
Season 18 also saw actress Andrea Gerhard, who played Linn Kemper, celebrate the arrival of her first child. Announcing her pregnancy on Instagram, she described the joy surrounding her family, bringing a personal touch to her time on the show.
As the season drew to a close, speculation arose about the future of the show. Producer Hans Sigl confirmed in various interviews that Season 19 is already under planning, with expectations set for its release in 2026. He highlighted the strong bond among the cast and crew, which he attributed to the show's success over the years.
Sigl, now 55, expressed a desire to continue portraying the character of Dr. Martin Gruber, emphasizing that he remains aligned with the show's integrity and message. He specifically stated, "As long as the ZDF wants to continue, I'm ready to portray the Bergdoktor," revealing that his contract extends to Season 20 in 2026.
While the series has delivered multiple dramatic arcs over its run, a recent split between the Bergdoktor and his romantic interest, Karin Bachmeier, also became a central theme. Viewers witnessed the emotional turmoil and shifting dynamics between characters, as they navigated love and loss alongside their medical challenges.
Fans also speculated about further developments while Sigl engaged with social issues beyond the show. In a recent interview, he expressed his feminist beliefs, stating, "It is disappointing that debates about equality and gender remain relevant today." He highlighted the need for continuous dialogue surrounding women's issues, including topics such as pay equality and gender-based violence.
In the context of the show's narrative, Sigl noted, "Our principle is empathy. We want to portray strong women and tell stories that resonate with audiences, unlike previous portrayals of women in similar roles." He referenced the character of Martin Gruber as an empathetic figure who has evolved compared to those in past medical dramas.
Looking ahead, Sigl also compared his series to the well-known American show "Yellowstone" in its thematic elements of family and protection, remarking that while both series share central characters' protective intentions, the Bergdoktor resolves conflicts through healing rather than violence.
As fans bid farewell to the finale of Season 18, the anticipation for what comes next in the lives of the beloved characters remains palpable. The enduring impact of "Der Bergdoktor" on audiences, paired with the personal growth of its cast, suggests a promising future as viewers continue to support the enduring saga of the Bergdoktor.
