The second season of the series Totenfrau, which centers on a funeral director in the picturesque Austrian Alps, has rapidly ascended to second place on Netflix's charts since its release on March 19, 2025. This season sees acclaimed actress Anna Maria Mühe reprise her role as Brünhilde Blum, a woman entangled in a web of dark secrets and personal turmoil.
In this gripping narrative, Blum is not just a caretaker of the dead but also a mother trying to shield her family from the shadows of a looming conspiracy. The story begins with the chilling discovery of a dismembered body, placing Blum squarely in the crosshairs of a dangerous investigation. Tensions escalate when her daughter, Nela, played by Emilia Pieske, is kidnapped, forcing Blum to navigate her personal demons while fleeing from an unseen pursuer.
The show has garnered significant attention, coming just behind the record-breaking series Adolescence, which remains at the top of the Netflix charts with 24.3 million views in its first four days. Adolescence, a gripping tale of a teen accused of murder, stands out for its unique storytelling approach—each episode unfolds without a single cut, drawing viewers into its emotional turmoil.
Despite the undeniable success of Adolescence, Totenfrau has earned positive reviews, securing a commendable 76% approval rating from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have also responded well, noting the quality of the production, though it has not topped Adolescence's 99% acclaim from critics. In particular, the duality of Blum's character—a woman compelled to confront her past while protecting her loved ones—has resonated with viewers.
Director Daniel Geronimo Prochaska emphasized during a recent interview how the complex character of Blum is central to the narrative. “She fights against the darkness that surrounds her as much as she deals with her own dark past,” Prochaska remarked, highlighting the show’s emotional depth.
Mühe's performance as Blum has also drawn attention, positioning her as a pivotal figure in the series. Previously known for her role as Beate Zschäpe, she now channels that intensity into portraying a chillingly vengeful undertaker. “It’s a reflection of the society we live in, where the consequences of one’s actions can be tragically far-reaching,” commented Mühe during her promotional appearances.
With its blend of suspense and personal drama, Totenfrau not only captivates its audience but encourages them to consider broader societal issues, such as morality and justice. As the season unfolds, viewers are left wondering how far Blum will go to protect her family and what costs she will incur along the way.
This new season promises more thrilling twists as Blum grapples with her responsibilities as a mother and a business owner, navigating a world filled with peril and uncertainty. Its ascent in the charts serves as a testament to the hunger for such narratives that combine personal struggle with broader existential questions.
The series is based on the novel by Bernhard Aichner and maintains a rich narrative structure that balances suspense with character development. With six episodes in this season, the audience can expect a tightly woven tapestry of storytelling filled with intrigue, tension, and emotional investment.
As the world watches Totenfrau rise in popularity, it certainly positions itself as a noteworthy contender against powerhouse productions such as Adolescence and paves the way for more engaging and thought-provoking content on streaming platforms.
