Heinz Marecek to depart ‘Die Bergretter’ after 17 years

Actor Heinz Marecek is leaving the ZDF series ‘Die Bergretter’ after 17 years. His character, the innkeeper Franz Marthaler, will die in the upcoming 18th season.

According to a ZDF spokesperson, the decision to end the character's story was made for dramaturgical reasons. Marecek has been a core member of the ensemble since the show's debut in 2009. His character was originally introduced as the father of a former lead character.

The departure will occur in the episode titled ‘Bruchstelle’, scheduled to air on November 12. The plot involves a rescue mission following a rockfall in the Dachstein Mountains, during which the team must process the unexpected death of Marthaler.