As the clock struck 20:15 on March 21, 2025, fans of the ZDF crime series "Der Staatsanwalt" held their breath for one last time as the final episode, titled "Zu allem entschlossen," aired, marking an emotional farewell to a series that has captivated audiences for two decades.
At the center of the narrative is Rainer Hunold, a 75-year-old actor whose portrayal of Oberstaatsanwalt Bernd Reuther has become iconic since the series premiered on January 10, 2005. With over 120 episodes under his belt, Hunold announced his retirement, citing age as a key factor in his decision. "Glaubwürdigkeit und Authentizität waren mir immer wichtige Kriterien für die Figuren, die ich gespielt habe. Angesichts meines Alters habe ich mich daher entschlossen, den von mir in über 120 Folgen gespielten Wiesbadener Oberstaatsanwalt Bernd Reuther in den Ruhestand zu entlassen," he explained, emphasizing his commitment to maintaining the character’s credibility.
The series began not as a show, but as a film titled "Henkersmahlzeit," which aired to great acclaim, leading to a full-fledged series that consistently drew between five and six million viewers weekly. This impressive viewership showcased the compelling blend of engaging crime stories and strong character development that resonated with the audience.
In the final episode, a new mystery unfolds as Ingo Zimmer, a former tile setter, is brutally murdered in his Wiesbaden apartment, leaving his daughter Cora, played by Sinje Irslinger, and the investigative team in a whirlwind of confusion. "Es geht so schnell, ich meine das Leben," whispers Hunold's character, Reuther, in his heart-wrenching last scene. The murder weapon and binding tape of the victim have mysteriously disappeared, sparking deeper investigations into Zimmer’s affairs.
The plot thickens as Reuther collaborates with Kommissare Julia Schröder (Anika Baumann) and Alexander Witte (Jannik Mioducki) to navigate a complex case that intertwines past grievances with current threats from protection racketeers. It is revealed that Cora’s father might have been entangled in underworld dealings, heightening the stakes of the investigation. With no significant leads from neighbors and limited information from Cora, the investigative team faces mounting pressure as they delve deeper into Zimmer's life.
Meanwhile, the narrative also follows a parallel case regarding Maja Schalko (Tessa Mittelstaedt), a woman Reuther believes is guilty of running over a young tour guide. Complications arise when Maja's son Theo pressures the court for her release, creating an environment ripe for escalation. The final act unveils darker connections between the cases, revealing troubling ties that lead to Sven Bensinger, a dangerous individual with motives against Reuther.
As the climactic events unfold, it is evident that more than just justice is at stake for Reuther. He must grapple with the reality of his career's end while facing the possibility of losing everything he holds dear. The concluding scenes leave viewers on the edge, wondering how the complex web of lies, criminality, and personal struggles will resolve.
In reflection, "Der Staatsanwalt" has established itself as a cultural staple in German television, beloved for its gripping narratives that engaged audiences across the country week after week. As Rainer Hunold bids farewell to his role, he closes the chapter on a character that has symbolized the pursuit of justice amidst moral complexities.
The ZDF confirmed there will be no successor to fill Hunold's role, declaring that the series will conclude with his departure, marking the end of an era for viewers who have followed Reuther’s journey for nearly two decades. "Die 20. Staffel der Krimireihe 'Der Staatsanwalt' wird die letzte sein," announced a spokesperson, decisively closing the door on future episodes of the iconic series.
As the credits roll on "Der Staatsanwalt," it becomes apparent that the legacy of Bernd Reuther will not only linger in the memories of devoted fans but also in the canon of television that depicted the complexities of human experiences intertwined with the criminal justice system. Through the keen insight and poignant storytelling presented over its many seasons, the series has cemented its place in the hearts of many.
