Wilson Gonzales Ochsenknecht is set to bring a slice of Berlin nightlife to the small screen with his new comedy series "Späti," which will premiere on ZDFneo on April 8, 2025. The series, dedicated to the iconic Berlin "Späti" kiosks, promises to capture the quirky essence of these local hangouts where residents gather for everything from late-night snacks to heartfelt conversations.
"Späti" will be available in the ZDF media library starting March 28, 2025, allowing audiences to dive into the world of late-night encounters and unexpected friendships. The show revolves around Fred, played by Ochsenknecht, who unexpectedly takes over the kiosk when its owner, Hakan, must travel to Turkey for family reasons. This leads to a series of comedic misadventures as Fred, described by Ochsenknecht as "a sympathetic loser-type," navigates the challenges of running a Späti.
In an interview with Ruhr24, Ochsenknecht shared that the idea for the series originated eight years ago, inspired by his own experiences hanging out at Spätis. "I lived right next to a KitKat Späti, and it was such an adventure that I started jotting down ideas," he explained. The show is not just a tribute to the beloved Späti culture but also a reflection of the unique stories that unfold in these social hubs.
The series is set in Kreuzkölln, a vibrant area of Berlin, though the exact location of the Späti in the show remains intentionally vague. "We filmed and built the Späti in Prenzlauer Berg, but it could be anywhere in Berlin," Ochsenknecht noted. The intention is to create a universal representation of the Späti experience, appealing to both locals and those unfamiliar with the culture.
Each episode of "Späti" promises a mix of humor and heart, as Fred struggles to manage the kiosk while dealing with a cast of eccentric characters, including regular customers who provide both comic relief and unexpected support. Among the guest stars are well-known figures like Bill Kaulitz and rapper Ski Aggu, adding to the show's appeal. Ochsenknecht praised Kaulitz's performance, stating, "He played as if he had done it for a thousand years. It was really nice to shoot with him."
In addition to the comedic elements, the series will touch on relevant social issues like gentrification, albeit in a light-hearted manner. "We address some topics but don't dive too deep because everyone knows what the problems are," Ochsenknecht explained. This balance of humor and social commentary is a hallmark of the show, making it relatable to a broad audience.
The show consists of eight episodes, with the first two airing back-to-back on April 8, 2025. The titles of the episodes reflect the comedic and sometimes chaotic nature of the series, with names like "Alles auf einmal" (Everything at Once) and "Street Credibility." Other episodes include "Grumpy Elster," "Eat the Rich," and "Rettet den Späti!" (Save the Späti!). Each episode explores different facets of life in and around the Späti, highlighting the interactions between Fred and his customers.
As the series unfolds, viewers will see Fred's character evolve from a carefree drifter who has lost his job and girlfriend to someone who must step up and take responsibility. His journey is supported by a colorful cast, including Aylin, Hakan's teenage daughter, who often finds herself cleaning up the messes Fred leaves behind. "Aylin knows exactly what needs to be done, and she often has to put Fred in his place," Ochsenknecht remarked.
The show's creators aimed for authenticity, ensuring that the characters and their stories resonate with real-life experiences. Ochsenknecht emphasized the importance of not exaggerating the characters' stories, making them relatable to viewers. "We wanted the stories to feel real, so that people could imagine themselves in similar situations," he said.
In light of the show's success, Ochsenknecht expressed hope for a second season, stating, "We have plenty of ideas and are eager to continue. We just need to see how the audience responds to the first season." The anticipation surrounding "Späti" reflects a growing interest in authentic storytelling that captures the spirit of contemporary Berlin.
As the premiere date approaches, excitement is building for what promises to be a heartwarming and humorous exploration of life in Berlin's Späti culture. With its blend of comedy, relatable characters, and social commentary, "Späti" aims to become a staple of German television, inviting viewers to experience the charm and chaos of the beloved Späti.
