[REVISION HISTORY]

Klaus J. Behrendt departure from Tatort

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What changed

2026-09-25 17:14 UTC → 2026-10-01 18:55 UTC · added ~~removed~~

German actor Klaus J. Behrendt has announced his departure from the long-running crime series ‘Tatort’ after 30 years. Behrendt, who portrays Chief Inspector Max Ballauf in the Cologne-based team, intends to conclude his role in 2027 upon reaching his 100th episode. Behrendt stated that the decision to retire from the role at his 30-year anniversary had been maturing for some time, citing a desire to spend more time with his family. While he may not leave the screen entirely, his tenure as a partner to Dietmar Bär’s character, Freddy Schenk, will end. Bär confirmed that the production plans to continue the series following Behrendt’s departure. Ricarda Seifried has been announced as the new detective for the Cologne-based installment, succeeding Behrendt. The 36-year-old actress will portray Chief Inspector Merle Rautenberg, joining Dietmar Bär. Seifried, a graduate of the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Arts known for ‘Polizeiruf 110’, is expected to make her debut in late 2026 or 2027. Filming for the 101st episode, titled ‘Entfesselt’, is already underway.

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