This Sunday at 8:15 PM, the long-beloved crime series, Tatort, will feature exciting and emotional stories as usual. But meanwhile, many fans may wonder why there’s no Tatort team based in Kassel, despite its cultural significance. The Hessischer Rundfunk produces three episodes each year, focusing on Frankfurt and Wiesbaden, leaving many appealing locations, such as Kassel, with untapped potential. Questions about funding and scheduling arise when looking at why certain cities have representation in the well-known crime series while others do not.
The Hessischer Rundfunk, a medium-sized broadcaster affiliated with ARD, produces three distinct Tatort episodes each year, with the teams from Frankfurt and Wiesbaden taking the spotlight. A spokesperson clarified, “There can’t be a team from every major Hessian city.” This illustrates the constraints the broadcaster faces in providing sufficient visibility for each team to establish itself with audiences.
Kassel remains a cultural hub in Germany, famous for its Documenta exhibitions and a rich history. Yet, despite its charm, the city’s absence is notable. In 2019, the former Frankfurt team of Janneke and Brix investigated a crime in Kassel in an episode titled Das Monster von Kassel. The screening attracted a great deal of attention, demonstrating the potential of the location as a compelling backdrop for future episodes.
Meanwhile, in a parallel narrative, another Tatort star found herself in an uncomfortable situation during the March 15, 2025, edition of Kölner Treff. Almila Bagriacik, known for her role in Tatort, shared her joy about motherhood after delivering her first child in August 2023, expressing her desire to have three children. However, her remarks inadvertently led to an awkward scenario with fellow guest Nova Meierhenrich, who was present to discuss her unfulfilled desire for children.
Bagriacik spoke openly about her new life, making a remark that seemed insensitively timed as Meierhenrich's struggles with conception were a central theme of her segment. Almila said, “I’ve always wanted to be a mother and have always wanted three children,” which inadvertently cast a shadow on Meierhenrich's heartfelt account of her own difficulties, including her experiences with sperm donation and hormone treatments, which have not resulted in pregnancy.
Following this uncomfortable moment, Almila Bagriacik quickly issued an apology, saying, “I felt so incredibly insensitive.” Nova gracefully assured her, “You don’t need to feel bad about it at all. I’m happy for all of my friends who have children. It’s all cool.” This exchange highlighted a critical discussion on the sensitivity surrounding discussions about infertility and motherhood on public platforms.
In another light-hearted take, as the renowned actor Axel Prahl approaches his 65th birthday on March 26, 2025, fans can look forward to the documentary titled Moinsen! Ich bin Axel Prahl, which airs on March 22, 2025. Prahl has been a beloved figure in the Münster Tatort since 2002, earning him a dedicated fan base.
The documentary gives exclusive insights into Prahl's career and personal life, showing him at work and enjoying lighter moments with colleagues, including Jan Josef Liefers, his longtime partner on screen. A sneak peek reveals their first scene together, celebrating a friendship that fans have cherished for years. Prahl’s big break began in 2001 with the film Halbe Treppe, and his career has blossomed since then, providing memorable contributions to both film and television.
Audiences will also get a sneak peek at the 47th case they will work on together in Tatort: Fiderallala, premiering April 6, 2025. Prahl's many talents extend beyond acting; he also has a passion for music and performs with his group, the Inselorchester, around Germany, merging his love for various musical genres.
These narratives intertwine to paint a broader picture of the current state of Tatort, revealing how integral it remains to German popular culture while showcasing the individual stories that form the fabric of the series. From addressing the absence of a Kassel team to discussions surrounding motherhood and infertility, and examining the lives of beloved actors like Axel Prahl, Tatort continues to engage with relevant themes in modern society. As the series celebrates its legacy, it also pushes conversations forward with sensitivity and warmth, allowing audiences to connect with the stories on a more personal level.
