On Sunday, March 16, 2025, the popular ZDF series Frühling closed its 14th season with the finale episode titled "Mein Geheimnis, dein Geheimnis." Fans were treated to yet another emotional and gripping tale featuring their beloved village helper, Katja Baumann, played by Simone Thomalla. Throughout the season, followers have grown increasingly attached to the characters and their stories, making the season's close both poignant and highly anticipated.
The finale episode focused primarily on Katja's connection with Sarah, the young girl she has been caring for throughout the season, who mysteriously disappears alongside her tormentor, Stella. This unexpected twist leaves Katja desperate for answers and searching for clues. Meanwhile, Trixie, another central character, gives birth to her second child and reveals to Katja her complicity through past secrets, adding another layer of intrigue to the episode.
Season 14's last installment aired at 20:15 as part of ZDF's Herzkino program and lasted for 90 minutes. Following its broadcast, all episodes of the season became available for streaming on the ZDF media library from January 18, 2025, allowing fans to catch up or relive the dramatic moments.
Notably, the stunning visuals of Frühling are brought to life through its filming locations, which consist of the picturesque towns of Bayrischzell and Parsberg in Upper Bavaria, Germany. Since 2010, Bayrischzell has served as the primary backdrop for the series, and recent renovations have introduced new filming sites like updated village helper stations and Lilly's apartment, aiding the show’s visual storytelling.
With the conclusion of season 14, audiences have already begun to wonder what lies next for Katja and her community, and fans can rejoice at the news—a 15th season of Frühling is confirmed! Simone Thomalla herself revealed during her participation on the hit show Let’s Dance how her filming schedule coincided with the dance competition. “Großartig, dass meine neue Staffel ‚Frühling‘ für mich etwas später beginnen kann, sodass ich RTL in diesem Jahr zusagen konnte,” she stated, indicating her commitment to the series amid her busy schedule.
While specific details for the storyline of the upcoming season have yet to be released by ZDF, it is clear there are plenty of stories still to be told following the dramatic events of the finale. Season 15 will include six new episodes and is expected to air sometime between January and February 2026, maintaining the series' Sunday primetime slot, which has drawn millions of fans over the years.
Despite the excitement of new content, there will also be changes within the cast. Dr. Ali Öz, portrayed by Aykut Kayacik, and Leslie Wolf, played by Nadine Wrietz, are set to depart the series. Meanwhile, the primary cast, including Thomalla as Katja, is anticipated to return for the upcoming season.
The depth and complexity of character relationships, especially highlighted by Trixie's shocking confession about Mark not being the father of her first child, adds rich material for future scripts. It remains to be seen how these revelations will impact the characters' interactions and what challenges will arise moving forward.
Filming locations are expected to remain the same, ensuring fans will recognize the charming landscapes they've come to love. The iconic settings, like the famed Café Huber and the Parish Church of Bayrischzell, render every scene authentic and enchanting, drawing viewers back to this fictional yet beloved village.
Beyond its captivating plots and picturesque scenery, Frühling is undeniably ingrained in the hearts of many viewers, showcasing everyday struggles, triumphs, and the essence of human connection. The confirmation of season 15 brings joy and high hopes for what lies next for Katja, Lilly, and the rest of the village—a continuing legacy for this beloved series.